Single-cell transcriptional profiling of splenic fibroblasts reveals subset-specific innate immune signatures in homeostasis and during viral infection

Our understanding of the composition and functions of splenic stromal cells remains incomplete. Here, based on analysis of over 20,000 single cell transcriptomes of splenic fibroblasts, we characterized the phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of these cells in healthy state and during virus infection. We describe eleven transcriptionally distinct fibroblastic cell clusters, reassuring known subsets and revealing yet unascertained heterogeneity amongst fibroblasts occupying diverse splenic niches. We further identify striking differences in innate immune signatures of distinct stromal compartments in vivo. Compared to other fibroblasts and to endothelial cells, Ly6C(+) fibroblasts of the red pulp were selectively endowed with enhanced interferon-stimulated gene expression in homeostasis, upon systemic interferon stimulation and during virus infection in vivo. Collectively, we provide an updated map of fibroblastic cell diversity in the spleen that suggests a specialized innate immune function for splenic red pulp fibroblasts. Joern Pezoldt et al. analyze mouse spleen fibroblasts using single cell RNA sequencing, revealing 11 distinct clusters of fibroblastic cells or subtypes. Their results collectively provide further insight into the transcriptional identities of splenic fibroblasts and innate immune signatures of distinct stromal compartments.

Automated summary

This study characterizes the phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of splenic fibroblasts by analyzing over 20,000 single cell transcriptomes, resulting in the identification of 11 distinct clusters or subtypes. The research provides insight into the transcriptional identities of splenic fibroblasts and innate immune signatures of different stromal compartments.