This research introduces the STED-EC atlas, a comprehensive single-cell transcriptomic resource mapping endothelial cell (EC) development across eight major organs during mouse embryogenesis. By analyzing these cells at half-day intervals, the authors identified that organ-specific vascular features primarily emerge during the mid-gestational stage. A comparison between mouse and human lung data revealed both evolutionary similarities and distinct gene expression patterns, highlighting the complexity of vascular specialization. The study specifically identifies the transcription factor Casz1 as a master regulator of pulmonary vascular growth. Through genetic experiments, the researchers demonstrated that Casz1 deficiency impairs lung development by disrupting the angiocrine signaling of FGF1, which is essential for proper epithelial cell proliferation. This work provides an interactive platform for investigating the molecular mechanisms that drive organotypic blood vessel differentiation and function.

References:

• Lin L, Zhong J, Jiang F, et al. A single-cell time-series atlas of endothelial cell embryonic development[J]. Cell, 2026.