Differentiation dynamics of mammary epithelial cells revealed by single-cell RNA sequencing

• DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-02001-5
• Publication Date: 2017-12-08T15:35:14Z
• Authors: Karsten Bach; Sara Pensa; Marta Grzelak; James Hadfield; David J. Adams; John C. Marioni; Walid T. Khaled
• Keywords: Involution (esoterism); Progenitor

Characterising the hierarchy of mammary epithelial cells (MECs) and how they are regulated during adult development is important for understanding breast cancer arises. Here we report use single-cell RNA sequencing to determine gene expression profile MECs across four developmental stages; nulliparous, mid gestation, lactation post involution. Our analysis 23,184 identifies 15 clusters, few which could be fully characterised by a single marker gene. We argue instead that cells-especially in luminal compartment-should rather conceptualised as being part continuous spectrum differentiation. Furthermore, our data support existence common progenitor cell giving rise intermediate, restricted alveolar hormone-sensing progenitors. This compartment undergoes transcriptional changes response full pregnancy, In summary, results provide global, unbiased view gland development.