RNA-Seq reveals distinct transcriptomic differences in rotator cuff tendon based on tear etiology and patient sex

Subacromial bursa in patients with rotator cuff tear with or without adhesive capsulitis exhibits a differential transcriptome with potential molecular biomarkers

Background

Although adhesive capsulitis (AC) is a common condition, the pathological mechanisms remain understudied. The purpose of our research was to evaluate variations in gene expression across the entire genome in the subacromial bursa tissue of individuals with rotator cuff tears (RCT), with or without AC, and to explore the factors that may influence the occurrence and progression of AC.

Methods

Transcription profiles of subacromial bursa samples from 12 RCT patients, of whom 6 had also AC, were evaluated. Data were generated using RNA-seq. DESeq2 was utilized to identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in both groups. In order to conduct a more in-depth examination of the DEGs, we performed Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis. A network of interactions between proteins was built, and the central genes were determined using Cytoscape. The hub genes were confirmed through qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry.

Results

324 of the 16,251 detected genes were identified as DEGs. Analysis of GO functional enrichment showed that the DEGs were enriched in domains of biological process, molecule function and cellular component. Analysis of KEGG pathways revealed enrichment of DEGs in pathways like IL-17 signaling and ECM-receptor interaction. We verified that the association between AC and the increase in expression of the PPI network hub genes.

Conclusion

This study investigated the transcriptome differences of subacromial bursa in RCT patients with or without AC. Using bioinformatics technology, we identified the DEGs and screened out the hub genes. The research enhanced the data on gene expression profiles of DEGs in the subacromial bursa tissue of patients with RCT, offering fresh perspectives on the regulation of gene transcription.

Stem cell-based therapeutic strategies for rotator cuff tendinopathy

Rotator cuff tendinopathy is a common musculoskeletal disorder that imposes significant health and economic burden. Stem cell therapy has brought hope for tendon healing in patients with final stage rotator cuff tendinopathy. Some clinical trials have confirmed the effectiveness of stem cell therapy for rotator cuff tendinopathy, but its application has not been promoted and approved. There are still many issues that should be solved prior to using stem cell therapy in clinical applications. The optimal source and dose of stem cells for rotator cuff tendinopathy should be determined. We also proposed novel prospective approaches that can overcome cell population heterogeneity and standardize patient types for stem cell applications.

The translational potential of this article

This review explores the optimal sources of stem cells for rotator cuff tendinopathy and the principles for selecting stem cell dosages. Key strategies are provided for stem cell population standardization and recipient selection.