Distinct Characteristics Between Perivascular and Subcutaneous Adipose-Derived Stem Cells

Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) can differentiate into vascular lineages and participate in vascular remodeling. Perivascular ADSCs (PV-ADSCs) draw attention because of their unique location. The heterogeneity of subcutaneous (SUB) and abdominal ADSCs were well addressed, but PV-ADSCs' heterogeneity has not been investigated. In this study, we applied single-cell analysis to compare SUB-ADSCs and PV-ADSCs regarding their subpopulations, functions, and cell fates. We uncovered four subpopulations of PV-ADSCs (Dpp4+, Col4a2+/Icam1+, Clec11a+/Cpe+, and Sult1e1+ cells), among which the Clec11a+ subpopulation potentially participated in and regulated PV-ADSC differentiation toward a smooth muscle cell (SMC) phenotype. Distinct characteristics between PV-ADSCs and SUB-ADSCs were revealed.

Automated summary

This study used single-cell analysis to compare the heterogeneity, functions, and cell fates of subcutaneous adipose-derived stem cells (SUB-ADSCs) and perivascular ADSCs (PV-ADSCs). Four subpopulations of PV-ADSCs were identified, with the Clec11a+ subpopulation potentially regulating the differentiation of PV-ADSCs towards a smooth muscle cell phenotype. The study revealed distinct characteristics between PV-ADSCs and SUB-ADSCs.