Nature：人类生殖道发育的​​时空细胞图谱

Core Viewpoint - The research conducted by the Wellcome Sanger Institute provides a comprehensive cellular map of the developing human reproductive tract, revealing key mechanisms of sexual dimorphism and potential insights into developmental reproductive disorders [1][12]. Group 1: Research Methodology - The study utilized advanced technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to analyze over 500,000 cells, identifying cell types and gene expression [3]. - The combination of these technologies allowed researchers to track cell differentiation and movement, identifying 52 specific cell types related to the reproductive tract [5]. Group 2: Key Findings - The origin of sexual dimorphism was explored, showing that both male and female embryos initially possess Müllerian and Wolffian ducts, which later differentiate under the influence of sex chromosomes and hormones [7]. - HOX genes were identified as crucial for organ positioning, with specific HOX genes expressed in different regions of the reproductive tract, correcting previous mouse model assumptions [8]. - The study found that functional regions of the adult reproductive organs, such as the non-ciliated epithelium of the fallopian tubes and epididymis, are established as early as the fetal stage, with transcriptional gradients reflecting this regionalization [9]. - The potential impact of environmental disruptors, such as BPA and phthalates, on development was assessed, indicating that exposure during critical developmental windows could lead to long-term health risks [10]. Group 3: Applications and Future Prospects - The open-source cellular atlas created from this research can be utilized for various applications, including disease research, drug development, and regenerative medicine, providing valuable insights into the causes of developmental reproductive disorders and potential therapeutic approaches [12][14].