Single-cell RNA-seq highlights heterogeneity in human primary Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem/stromal cells cultured in vitro

The study investigated the gene expression profiles of human primary Wharton's jelly-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (WJMSCs) using single-cell RNA sequencing from three donors, revealing significant heterogeneity in their functional characteristics. Highly variable genes (HVGs) were enriched in functions related to development, signal transduction, and cell proliferation, and were associated with classic MSC functions like inflammation and angiogenesis. The study identified distinct subpopulations of MSCs with diverse functional traits, and CD142 + and CD142 − WJMSCs showed different proliferation and wound healing capacities. Despite being derived from different tissues, WJMSCs and adipose-derived MSCs shared similar HVGs, suggesting potential markers for further studies on MSC therapeutic applications.