Fibroadipogenic Progenitor Regulates Neuromuscular Junction by Secreting Novel Protein Granzyme E

ABSTRACT: Muscle fibroadipogenic progenitor (FAP) cells, which are muscular mesenchymal cells that originate from lateral plate mesoderm have been proposed to act as a critical regulator for adult muscle homeostasis1–7, including the maturation and proper functioning of the neuromuscular junction (NMJ)3, Prx-Bap1 paper. However, the mechanism and intercellular crosstalk by which FAPs regulate the stability and functionality of neuromuscular system remains unknown. Here we show that FAPs not only locally but also systemically regulate the neuromuscular system through the secretion of a serine-type endopeptidase Granzyme E which may imply the previously unidentified endocrine function of FAPs. Local transplantation of wild-type FAPs into the neuromuscular disease model (Prrx1Cre;Bap1f/f, hereafter, cKO) can readily prevent neuromuscular defects, including degeneration of the neuromuscular junction and loss of motor neurons. These effects are found not only in transplanted hindlimb muscles but also in the contralateral hindlimb and even forelimb muscles. Notably, subcutaneous administration of microparticles encapsulating FAP-conditioned media into cKO mice was sufficient to restore normal neuromuscular functions. By analyzing the transcriptomic and secretomic profiles of FAPs, we identified a novel protein, Granzyme E, which is specifically expressed in and secreted by FAPs, and which indispensably regulates the structure and function of NMJ and motor neuron survival. Our study has defined a unique mechanism of Granzyme E-dependent, systemic control of the neuromuscular system by FAPs, which would provide a comprehensive understanding on the neuromuscular systems and their crosstalk with non-neuronal cells. These findings may provide a therapeutic benefit to treat NMJ-related diseases.

ORGANISM(S): Mus musculus

PROVIDER: GSE199660 | GEO | 2022/08/31

REPOSITORIES: GEO