CTO Meteor Biotech Meteor Biotech, Republic of Korea
Abstract: Spatially Resolved Laser-Activated Cell Sorting (SLACS) was used to investigate the impact of Ahcyl knockout (Ahcyl-KO) on intestinal cellular dynamics in mouse models. By targeting Lgr5-positive intestinal stem cells, Alpi-positive absorptive enterocytes, and Muc2-positive goblet cells, SLACS enabled the precise isolation of these cell populations from both Ahcyl-KO and control tissues while preserving spatial and molecular integrity. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant alterations in Lgr5 stem cell gene expression in Ahcyl-KO tissues, including downregulation of regeneration-associated pathways, suggesting impaired epithelial turnover. Alpi enterocytes in the Ahcyl-KO group exhibited reduced expression of nutrient absorption genes, implicating compromised digestive function. Additionally, Muc2 goblet cells showed dysregulated mucus-related gene expression, indicating potential disruption of the intestinal barrier. Spatial mapping highlighted altered cellular organization and niche interactions in Ahcyl-KO tissues, particularly a diminished presence of Lgr5 stem cells in crypt regions. These findings demonstrate the utility of SLACS in dissecting the spatial and molecular effects of genetic perturbations, providing novel insights into the role of Ahcyl in intestinal homeostasis and its implications for gastrointestinal diseases.
