The transcriptional profile of keloidal Schwann cells

Recently, a specific Schwann cell type with profibrotic and tissue regenerative properties that contributes to keloid formation has been identified. In the present study, we reanalyzed published single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) studies of keloids, healthy skin, and normal scars to reliably determine the specific gene expression profile of keloid-specific Schwann cell types in more detail. We were able to confirm the presence of the repair-like, profibrotic Schwann cell type in the datasets of all three studies and identified a specific gene-set for these Schwann cells. In contrast to keloids, in normal scars, the number of Schwann cells was not increased, nor was their gene expression profile distinctly different from that of Schwann cells of normal skin. In addition, our bioinformatics analysis provided evidence for a role of transcription factors of the AP1, STAT, and KLF families, and members of the IER genes in the dedifferentiation process of keloidal Schwann cells. Together, our analysis strengthens the role of the profibrotic Schwann cell type in the formation of keloids. Knowledge of the exact gene expression profile of these Schwann cells will facilitate their identification in other organs and diseases. Skin injury: How Schwann cells mediate abnormal scar formation Reprogrammed genetic activity in specialized versions of Schwann cells, which support the development and functioning of the peripheral nervous system, promotes enlarged abnormal scars known as keloid scars during repair of nerves in skin injuries. Nerve injury causes neighboring Schwann cells to revert to an immature state, and then develop specific repair functions that help nerve healing. Michael Mildner and colleagues at the Medical University of Vienna, Austria, analyzed previously published data on changes in gene activity in Schwann cells active in keloid scars. They identified a role for a set of transcription factors, proteins that control the activity of specific genes, and for a family of genes involved in reprogramming the Schwann cells. These findings may assist understanding of Schwann cell activity in other organs and conditions.

Automated summary

A recent study reanalyzed published data on single-cell RNA sequencing of keloids, healthy skin, and normal scars to determine the gene expression profile of keloid-specific Schwann cells. The study confirmed the presence of profibrotic Schwann cells and identified a specific gene-set for these cells. Additionally, the analysis provided evidence for the involvement of transcription factors and IER genes in the dedifferentiation process of keloidal Schwann cells.