009 Single cell RNA sequencing reveals specific subsets in Systemic Sclerosis fibroblast cultures

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disease causing vasculopathy and fibrosis in the skin vital organs. Following an inflammatory reaction, fibroblasts connective tissues become activated myofibroblasts secrete excessive amounts of ECM related proteins, such as collagen, creating fibrosis. Many studies have been carried out culture, however, information obtained remains limited due to high potential heterogeneity these fibroblasts. We therefore used single cell RNA sequencing better understand fibroblast SSc search for new therapeutic targets biomarkers. conducted RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis human dermal from 4 healthy donors. identified several up- downregulated genes defined populations; we also confirmed significant upregulation tetraspanin CD9 all subsets when compared controls. at surface was by flow cytometry. Additionally, strong Four half LIM domains 1 (FHL1) small cluster protein level. These cells did not express α-SMA thereby constitute subpopulation found exosomes FHL1 has implicated myofibroblast differentiation; there much known about their role are focusing on direct impact both using specific deletion experiments.