Pluripotent stem cell-derived myogenic progenitors remodel their molecular signature upon in vivo engraftment

Abstract

Optimal cell-based therapies for the treatment of muscle degenerative disorders should not only regenerate fibers but provide a quiescent satellite cell pool ensuring long-term maintenance and regeneration. Conditional expression of Pax3/Pax7 in differentiating pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) allows the generation of myogenic progenitors endowed with enhanced regenerative capacity. To identify the molecular determinants underlying their regenerative potential, we performed transcriptome analyses of these cells along with primary myogenic cells from several developmental stages. Here we show that in vitro-generated PSC-derived myogenic progenitors possess a molecular signature similar to embryonic/fetal myoblasts. However, compared with fetal myoblasts, following transplantation they show superior myofiber engraftment and ability to seed the satellite cell niche, respond to multiple reinjuries, and contribute to long-term regeneration. Upon engraftment, the transcriptome of reisolated Pax3/Pax7–induced PSC-derived myogenic progenitors changes toward a postnatal molecular signature, particularly in genes involved in extracellular matrix remodeling. These findings demonstrate that Pax3/Pax7–induced myogenic progenitors remodel their molecular signature and functionally mature upon in vivo exposure to the adult muscle environment.