COL1A1-Enhanced CD44/SLC7A11 Interaction and Cystine Uptake Result in CD34+ Foam-Like Macrophage Accumulation in Transplant Arteriosclerosis

Selectively targeting specific inflammatory macrophage subpopulations is essential for inhibiting the primary triggers of inflammatory and immune responses. Therefore, elucidating the origins and regulatory mechanisms of these macrophages in allograft arteriosclerosis is critical for the development of targeted therapies.

We performed scRNA-seq and spatial transcriptomics or integrated transcriptomic data from human chronic allograft vasculopathy specimens and mouse vascular allograft models. Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence staining were employed to characterize macrophage subpopulations within remodeled allograft arteries. To determine cellular origins, CD34+ lineage-tracing and depletion strategies were used.