Cellular complexity of the peripheral nervous system: Insights from single-cell resolution

Single-cell RNA sequencing allows the division of cell populations, offers precise transcriptional profiling of individual cells, and fundamentally advances the comprehension of cellular diversity. In the peripheral nervous system (PNS), the application of single-cell RNA sequencing identifies multiple types of cells, including neurons, glial cells, ependymal cells, immune cells, and vascular cells. Sub-types of neurons and glial cells have further been recognized in nerve tissues, especially tissues in different physiological and pathological states. In the current article, we compile the heterogeneities of cells that have been reported in the PNS and describe cellular variability during development and regeneration. The discovery of the architecture of peripheral nerves benefits the understanding of the cellular complexity of the PNS and provides a considerable cellular basis for future genetic manipulation.

Automated summary

Single-cell RNA sequencing enables the classification and transcriptional profiling of individual cells, leading to a better understanding of cellular diversity. In the peripheral nervous system (PNS), this technique has identified multiple cell types including neurons, glial cells, ependymal cells, immune cells, and vascular cells. Subtypes of neurons and glial cells have also been recognized in different physiological and pathological states. This article summarizes the heterogeneity of cells in the PNS and describes cellular variability during development and regeneration, which provides insights into the complex cellular architecture of the PNS and serves as a basis for future genetic manipulation.