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Fact or fiction — Exploring resident mesenchymal stem cells in abdominal aortic aneurysm from multiple perspectives

Rapid Communications

Fact or fiction — Exploring resident mesenchymal stem cells in abdominal aortic aneurysm from multiple perspectives

Shen Shikai
Han Yanshuo
Gang Qingwei
Liu Mingyu
Qi Yao
Zhang Jian
Genes & Diseases第12卷, 第1期纸质出版 2025-01-01在线发表 2024-01-14
600

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are somatic adult stem cells derived from the mesoderm, possessing robust multipotency and regenerative properties. These cells are found in various tissues, including bone marrow, adipose tissue, the placenta, and the umbilical cord. The vascular wall serves as a reservoir for different types of stem and progenitor cells, contributing to tissue regeneration and vascular wall remodeling under pathological and environmental stress. Previous studies have reported the presence of MSCs or MSC-like cells in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).1 However, due to the lack of exclusive and specific makers, identification and confirmation of vascular MSCs of patients with AAA remains challenging. Accurately determining the quantity and function of resident MSCs in patients with AAA holds immense importance in unraveling the pathogenesis and progression of the disease. Although Ciavarella and colleagues have successfully isolated arterial wall MSCs in patients with AAA,2,3 it is important to note that their findings have not been independently replicated in other centers. Therefore, the presence of vascular MSCs in patients with AAA requires validation using precise and powerful tools. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is an advanced technique that allows for the distinction and characterization of tissue stem cells. Despite the limited studies utilizing scRNA-seq on AAA samples, none have defined an MSC cluster. Thus, this investigation aimed to determine the plausibility of MSC existence in AAA samples using diverse methods.

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