Single-cell profiling of a mouse model for perianal fistulizing Crohn's disease
This study aims to define the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying impaired healing in perianal fistulizing Crohn's disease (pfCD). Using a novel mouse model that recapitulates key features of human pfCD, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing to map the dynamic fistula microenvironment. A central goal was to investigate the pathogenic role of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) by comparing wild-type mice with Padi4 knockouts, which are genetically deficient in NET formation. This dataset provides a foundational resource for understanding how NETs drive chronic inflammation, disrupt tissue repair programs, and contribute to fistula persistence.