Single-cell transcriptomics identifies conserved regulators of neuroglandular lineages

• DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111370
• Publication Date: 2022-09-20T14:48:31Z
• Authors: Julia Steger; Alison G. Cole; Andreas Denner; Tatiana Lebedeva; Grigory Genikhovich; Alexander Ries; Robert Reischl; Elisabeth Taudes; Mark Lassnig; Ulrich Technau
• Keywords: Sea anemone; Cell type; Lineage (genetic); Cell fate determination; Developmental Biology; Progenitor

Communication in bilaterian nervous systems is mediated by electrical and secreted signals; however, the evolutionary origin relation of neurons to other secretory cell types has not been elucidated. Here, we use developmental single-cell RNA sequencing cnidarian Nematostella vectensis, representing an early lineage with a simple system. Validated transgenics, demonstrate that neurons, stinging cells, gland cells arise from common multipotent progenitor population. We identify conserved transcription factor gene SoxC as key upstream regulator all neuroglandular lineages knockdown eliminates both neuronal types. While vertebrates many bilaterians neurogenesis largely restricted stages, show sea anemone, differentiation maintained throughout life follows same molecular trajectories embryo adulthood, ensuring lifelong homeostasis lineages.