Single Cell Sequencing Reveals Cellular Heterogeneity in Mouse Dorsal Root Ganglion

The dorsal root ganglion plays a crucial role in sensory transduction and modulation. Nevertheless, the specific physiological functions of the diverse cell types within the dorsal root ganglion remain poorly understood. Here, three physiologic mouse dorsal root ganglion data (GSE155622) were obtained from the NCBI database, yielding data on a total of 14 902 cells. Based on the genetic profiles, we identified neurons, immune cells, fibroblasts, satellite glial cells, Schwann cells, vascular endothelial cells, and vascular smooth muscle cells. Our results found functional enrichment of each cell subtype utilizing QuSAGE, GO, and KEGG enrichment methodologies, determined the evolutionary trajectories of cell subtypes through pseudo-temporal analysis, and constructed a comprehensive cellular communication network. Furthermore, RNAscope in situ hybridization and ISH-IHC double staining were performed to verify the expression of marker genes and itch-related genes in DRG tissues of C57BL/6 mice with no treatment. In summary, our findings reveal cellular heterogeneity in mouse dorsal root ganglion, which offers novel insights into the physiology of mice.