Dual scRNA-Seq analysis reveals rare and uncommon parasitized cell populations in chronic L. donovani infection

ABSTRACT: Although phagocytic cells are documented targets of Leishmania parasites, it is unclear whether other cell types can be infected. Here, we use unbiased scRNA-seq to simultaneously analyze host cell and Leishmania donovani transcriptomes to identify and annotate parasitized cells in spleen and bone marrow in chronically infected mice. Our dual-scRNA-seq methodology allows the detection of heterogenous parasitized populations. In the spleen, monocytes and macrophages are the dominant parasitized cells, while megakaryocytes, basophils and NK cells are found unexpectedly infected. In the bone marrow, the Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs) expressing phagocytic receptors FcγR and CD93 are the main parasitized cells. Additionally, we also detect parasitized cycling basal cells, eosinophils, and macrophages in chronically infected mice. Flow cytometric analysis confirms the presence of parasitized HSCs. Ourunbiased dual scRNA-seq method identifies rare, parasitized cells, possibly implicated in pathogenesis, persistence, and protective immunity using a non-targeted approach.

ORGANISM(S): Mus musculus

PROVIDER: GSE240385 | GEO | 2023/09/14

REPOSITORIES: GEO