Cell state · L2
MESO.activated_stress
187 cells in the full atlas (not the displayed sample).
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Marker genes
ATF3, DCTN6, DDX3X, FOSB, JUN, KLF2, KLF4, TOB1
Annotation genes
ATF3, JUN, KLF2, KLF4
Annotation rationales
A classic IEG/stress cassette—ATF3, JUN, KLF2, KLF4—signals rapid mechanotransduction and cytokine sensing. KLF2 integrates shear/flow on the beating heart; KLF4 and ATF3 mediate cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory reprogramming and barrier gene induction. This is expected of mesothelium exposed to cyclical strain (epicardium) and expansion/contraction (visceral fat).
Functional implications
Heart: swiftly dampen pericardial inflammation, tighten junctions, and restore lubricating glycocalyx after hemodynamic spikes, limiting fibrinous adhesions. Adipose: buffer depot expansion stress by issuing acute anti-inflammatory cues, preventing macrophage over-recruitment and preserving a low-friction serosal surface for organ sliding.
Marker and functional descriptions are atlas annotations. Explore gene expression, trait associations and regulatory elements in the interactive browsers; see the browser guide.