Decoding Human Megakaryocyte Development
Updated August 30, 2022Despite our growing understanding of embryonic immune development, rare early megakaryocytes (MKs) remain relatively understudied. Here we used single-cell RNA sequencing of human MKs from embryonic yolk sac (YS) and fetal liver (FL) to characterize the transcriptome, cellular heterogeneity, and developmental trajectories of early megakaryopoiesis. In the YS and FL, we found heterogeneous MK subpopulations with distinct developmental routes and patterns of gene expression that could reflect early functional specialization. Intriguingly, we identified a subpopulation of CD42b+CD14+ MKs in vivo that exhibit high expression of genes associated with immune responses and can also be derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) in vitro. Furthermore, we identified THBS1 as an early marker for MK-biased embryonic endothelial cells. Overall, we provide important insights and invaluable resources for dissection of the molecular and cellular programs underlying early human megakaryopoiesis.
To reference this project, please use the following link:
Downloaded and exported data is governed by the HCA Data Release Policy and licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0). For more information please see our Data Use Agreement.
Analysis Portals
NoneProject Label
MegakaryocyteDevelopmentSpecies
Sample Type
Anatomical Entity
Organ Part
Selected Cell Types
Model Organ
Disease Status (Specimen)
Disease Status (Donor)
Development Stage
Library Construction Method
Nucleic Acid Source
Paired End
false, trueAnalysis Protocol
10x_analysis_protocolFile Format
Cell Count Estimate
18.7kDonor Count
12