Single cell RNA-seq analysis links respiratory dysfunction to an extracellular matrix-specific damage response

Energy metabolism and extracellular matrix function are closely connected to orchestrate and maintain tissue organization, but the crosstalk is poorly understood. Here, we used scRNA-seq analysis to uncover the importance of respiration for extracellular matrix homeostasis in mature cartilage. Genetic inhibition of respiration in cartilage results in the expansion of a central area of 1-month-old mouse femur head cartilage showing disorganized chondrocytes and increased deposition of extracellular matrix material. scRNA-seq analysis identified a cluster-specific decrease in mitochondrial DNA-encoded respiratory chain genes and a unique regulation of extracellular matrix-related genes in nonarticular chondrocyte clusters. These changes were associated with alterations in extracellular matrix composition, a shift in the collagen/non-collagen protein content and an increase of collagen crosslinking and ECM stiffness. The results demonstrate, based on findings of the scRNA-seq analysis, that respiration is a key factor contributing to ECM integrity and mechanostability in cartilage and presumably also in many other tissues.