Cell state · L2
MEL.dedifferentiated_migratory
292 cells in the full atlas (not the displayed sample).
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Marker genes
EFNB2, FOSB, HSPA13, IRF4, KLF4, NEAT1, PLXNC1, PPP1R10, SEMA6A, SLC19A2, SLC38A2, TGFBR1
Annotation genes
FOSB, KLF4, PLXNC1, SEMA6A, TGFBR1
Annotation rationales
In the epidermis, melanocytes can transiently downshift pigment programs to migrate and repopulate wounded or UV-injured areas. FOSB and KLF4 (IEG/epidermal plasticity TFs) denote a dedifferentiation/“edge” response that loosens lineage constraints. Guidance receptors PLXNC1 and SEMA6A (semaphorin axis) plus ephrin EFNB2 coordinate dendrite extension, pathfinding along the basement membrane, and detachment–reattachment cycles with keratinocytes. TGFBR1 marks responsiveness to TGF-β, a cue that promotes EMT-like features and motility while restraining melanogenesis. Lineage factor IRF4 remains detectable, indicating retained melanocytic identity during this migratory, low-pigment state.
Functional implications
Rapidly repopulate denuded epidermis after abrasion/UV damage by crawling along the DEJ, re-establishing pigment cell coverage; transiently reduce melanin synthesis to prioritize migration and junctional remodeling; interpret local TGF-β via TGFBR1 to control EMT-like motility; use PLXNC1/SEMA6A guidance to position dendrites toward keratinocyte targets, restoring even melanin transfer once the sheet is reseeded.
Marker and functional descriptions are atlas annotations. Explore gene expression, trait associations and regulatory elements in the interactive browsers; see the browser guide.