Single-cell transcriptomics of human embryos identifies multiple sympathoblast lineages with potential implications for neuroblastoma origin

Single-cell transcriptome profiling of human embryonic sympathoadrenal tissues identifies developmental transitions and suggests that intra-adrenal sympathoblasts arising from Schwann cell precursors are a potential neuroblastoma cell of origin. Characterization of the progression of cellular states during human embryogenesis can provide insights into the origin of pediatric diseases. We examined the transcriptional states of neural crest- and mesoderm-derived lineages differentiating into adrenal glands, kidneys, endothelium and hematopoietic tissue between post-conception weeks 6 and 14 of human development. Our results reveal transitions connecting the intermediate mesoderm and progenitors of organ primordia, the hematopoietic system and endothelial subtypes. Unexpectedly, by using a combination of single-cell transcriptomics and lineage tracing, we found that intra-adrenal sympathoblasts at that stage are directly derived from nerve-associated Schwann cell precursors, similarly to local chromaffin cells, whereas the majority of extra-adrenal sympathoblasts arise from the migratory neural crest. In humans, this process persists during several weeks of development within the large intra-adrenal ganglia-like structures, which may also serve as reservoirs of originating cells in neuroblastoma.

Automated summary

Single-cell transcriptome profiling of human embryonic sympathoadrenal tissues reveals developmental transitions and suggests that intra-adrenal sympathoblasts from Schwann cell precursors may be potential neuroblastoma cell origins. The majority of extra-adrenal sympathoblasts appear to arise from migratory neural crest cells, while intra-adrenal sympathoblasts seem to be directly derived from nerve-associated Schwann cell precursors. This process persists during several weeks of development within the large intra-adrenal ganglia-like structures, potentially serving as reservoirs of originating cells in neuroblastoma.