Single-cell transcriptional landscape of muscle-derived stem/progenitor cells reveal hallmarks of aging and rejuvenation

However, their molecular identity and developmental status remain poorly defined. Using single-cell transcriptomic and proteomics, we profiled murine MDSPCs comprehensively across age groups.

We show that MDSPCs exist along a transcriptional continuum of maturation—ranging from metabolically active, proliferative early-stage cells to late-stage, lineage-committed myogenic populations. While lacking canonical pluripotency markers, early-stage MDSPCs express gene programs associated with embryonic progenitor identity, suggesting a non-canonical, multipotent-like state. These features distinguish them from both satellite cells and committed myoblasts.