CD4 + T cell heterogeneity in gestational age and preeclampsia using single-cell RNA sequencing

A balance between pro-inflammatory decidual CD4 T cells and regulatory T cells ( Tregs) is important for maintaining fetomaternal tolerance. Using single-cell RNA-sequencing and T cell receptor repertoire analysis, we determined that diversity and clonality of decidual CD4 T cell subsets depend on gestational age. Th1/Th2 intermediate and Th1 subsets of CD4 T cells were clonally expanded in both early and late gestation, whereas Tregs were clonally expanded in late gestation. Th1/Th2 intermediate and Treg subsets showed altered gene expression in preeclampsia (PE) compared to healthy late gestation. The Th1/Th2 intermediate subset exhibited elevated levels of cytotoxicity-related gene expression in PE. Moreover, increased Treg exhaustion was observed in the PE group, and Treg subcluster analysis revealed that the effector Treg like subset drove the Treg exhaustion signatures in PE. The Th1/Th2 intermediate and effector Treg like subsets are possible inflammation-driving subsets in PE.