CD34+ cell atlas of main organs implicates its impact on fibrosis

RationaleCD34+ cells are believed being progenitors that may be used to treat cardiovascular disease. However, the exact identity and the role of CD34+ cells in physiological and pathological conditions remain unclear.MethodsWe performed single-cell RNA sequencing analysis to provide a cell atlas of normal tissue/organ and pathological conditions. Furthermore, a genetic lineage tracing mouse model was used to investigate the role of CD34+ cells in angiogenesis and organ fibrosis.ResultsSingle-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed a heterogeneous population of CD34+ cells in both physiological and pathological conditions. Using a genetic lineage tracing mouse model, we showed that CD34+ cells not only acquired endothelial cell fate involved in angiogenesis, but also, CD34+ cells expressing Pi16 may transform into myofibroblast and thus participate in organ fibrosis.ConclusionA heterogeneous CD34+ cells serve as a contributor not only to endothelial regeneration but also a wound healing response that may provide therapeutic insights into fibrosis.