Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics analysis reveals that Pros1+ oligodendrocytes are involved in endogenous neuroprotection after brainstem stroke.

Abstract

Background: Brainstem stroke accounts only 7-10 % of all ischemic stroke while it had more morbidity and mortality. As the predominant cellular component of nerve tracts, oligodendrocytes might provide some neuroprotection against ischemic injury in the context of brainstem stroke, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear.

Method: A mouse model of brainstem stroke was established, and single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomic sequencing analysis were performed to elucidate the phenotype of oligodendrocytes within this context.

Results: Loss of oligodendrocytes led to neurological impairment following brainstem stroke, and subsequent proliferation of oligodendrocytes was observed. We identified a subcluster of Pros1⁺ oligodendrocytes, designated OLG8 cells. These cells increased in number after brainstem stroke and were enriched around the peri-infarct zone. OLG8 cells were derived from oligodendrocyte progenitor cells, and this process was found to be regulated by Myo1e. We found that OLG8 cells protected interneurons. Notably, the overexpression of Myo1e within OLG8 cells led to a marked reduction in infarct volume while simultaneously improving the recovery of neurological function.

Conclusion: In conclusion, we identified a novel cell subcluster, OLG8 cells, in the context of brainstem stroke, and found that overexpression of Myo1e alleviated ischemic injury by facilitating the differentiation of OLG8 cells. Our study provided insight into the mechanism of brainstem stroke.