Linking transcriptome to cell behavior in real time uncovers molecular fate-asymmetry and a quiescence cycle among adult neural stem cells

Authors

Foley, T., Foucher, I., Letort, G., Samaran, J., Dussauge, M., Morizet, D., Dray, N., Cantini, L., Bally-Cuif, L.

Abstract

Adult neural stem cells (NSCs) are transcriptionally heterogeneous, yet the relationship between molecular heterogeneities and individual NSC trajectories remains unclear. Here, we link transcriptional identities with cellular features and measures of real time to identify molecular trajectories hidden within transcriptomic space. Among self-renewing NSCs, we resolve single-cell molecular transitions associated with fate asymmetry at division. We also show that individual self-renewing NSCs progressively transition from molecular states of deep to shallow quiescence during prolonged quiescence phases. Together, this work reveals individual NSC trajectories within transcriptomic space during fate decisions and state transitions. In particular, it highlights the existence of a transcriptionally encoded quiescence cycle followed by adult NSCs, independent of lineage progression, that balances division with cell growth to sustain self-renewal over time.

Preprint server: bioRxiv
The authors list and abstract were imported from bioRxiv on 11 Jul 2026.

Stats

1-terrible, 9-excellent. How would you rate this preprint? Sign in in to submit your rating.

Post a comment

You need to be signed in to post comments. You can sign in here.

Comments

There are no comments yet.