The Human Testis Cell Atlas via Single-cell RNA-seq (Healthy men scRNA-seq data set)

Human adult spermatogenesis involves a balance of spermatogonial stem cell self renewal and differentiation, alongside complex germline-niche interactions. To better understand, we performed single cell RNA sequencing of ~7000 testis cells from three healthy men of peak reproductive age. Our analyses revealed multiple distinctive transcriptional ‘states’ of self-renewing and differentiating spermatogonia, the cellular stages of gametogenesis, five niche cells (Leydig, Myoid, Sertoli, Endothelial, macrophage) and insights into germline-niche communication. Spermatogenesis was reconstructed computationally, which identified sequential coding, noncoding, and repeat-element transcriptional signatures. A new, developmentally early and likely quiescent spermatogonial state is identified (GFRA1-/ETV5-/ID4+/UTF1+/FGFR3+). Notably, certain epigenetic features combined with nascent transcription analyses suggest considerable plasticity within certain spermatogonial populations/states. Key findings were validated via RNA and protein staining. Taken together, we provided the first “Cell Atlas” of the adult human testis, and provide multiple new insights into germ cell development and germ cell – niche interaction.

搜集汇总

背景与挑战

背景概述

该数据集是一个通过单细胞RNA测序技术构建的人类睾丸细胞图谱，包含三个健康成年男性约7000个睾丸细胞的测序数据，揭示了精子发生过程中的多个转录状态和细胞类型（如精原细胞、支持细胞等），并提供了生殖细胞与微环境相互作用的见解。数据集包含6个样本，测序平台为Illumina HiSeq 2500，外部数据库标识为GSE112013，但部分详细信息（如物种、器官）在表格中未明确列出。