Single-cell RNA landscape of cell heterogeneity and immune microenvironment in ligation-induced vascular remodeling in rat

Abstract

Background and aimsVascular remodeling is a common pathological basis for cardiovascular diseases. Although both immune and non-immune cells have been suggested to contribute to this process, the complex cellular heterogeneity and intercellular interactions remain largely uncharacterized. Methods and ResultsIn this study, we simulated early and late vascular remodeling by ligating the rat carotid artery for 1 week and 4 weeks, respectively. Using single-cell RNA-sequencing, we characterized gene expression signatures and driver signals of major cell types involved in vascular remodeling. Focused analysis revealed a novel sub-population of Selenbp1hi smooth muscle cells (SMCs) associated with vascular remodeling. Results of intercellular communication analyses predicted several ligand-receptor pairs between immune cells with SMCs and endothelial cells (ECs), implicating SMCs apoptosis and repair, ECs aging and inflammatory responses. ConclusionsWe present a comprehensive single-cell atlas of vascular cells in early and late stages of ligated rat carotid artery, providing valuable insights into the understanding of the initiation and progression of vascular remodeling.