Single-cell genomics reveals transcriptional heterogeneity and cellular crosstalk in salivary gland fibrosis

Background/purpose: Salivary gland fibrosis (SGF) is a prevalent condition associated with various pathological states. However, a detailed understanding of the single-cell transcriptional profiles and cell–cell communication networks in this context remains elusive. Therefore, we aimed to unveil th...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Dan Liang, Wei Xu, Yifan Wu, Qicheng Ye, Wanlin Xu, Hao Lu
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Elsevier 2025-07-01
Series:Journal of Dental Sciences
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Online Access:http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1991790225000479
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Summary:Background/purpose: Salivary gland fibrosis (SGF) is a prevalent condition associated with various pathological states. However, a detailed understanding of the single-cell transcriptional profiles and cell–cell communication networks in this context remains elusive. Therefore, we aimed to unveil the gene expression profiles and intercellular communication patterns in SGF. Materials and methods: We established fibrosis models of the submandibular gland (SMG) and generated a detailed single-cell transcriptomic atlas to investigate cellular heterogeneity and communication patterns. Utilizing CellChat, we dissected the intercellular dialogues within these fibrotic environments. Results: The analysis distinguished fifteen distinct cellular clusters, highlighting significant heterogeneity among fibroblasts in fibrotic SMGs compared to their healthy counterparts. This heterogeneity was linked to TGF-β signaling, collagen fibril assembly, and extracellular matrix organization. CellChat analyses uncovered enhanced cell–cell interactions, notably between fibroblasts and endothelial cells (ECs) via the Gas6-Axl signaling axis. Additionally, our data indicated the activation of cell adhesion molecules and Rap1 pathways in ECs within the fibrotic SMG microenvironment. Conclusion: This study offers an in-depth single-cell resolution perspective on the cellular and molecular changes in SMG fibrosis, identifying new potential therapeutic targets for this condition.
ISSN:1991-7902