Dlk1 is a novel adrenocortical stem/progenitor cell marker that predicts malignancy in adrenocortical carcinoma [ssRNA-Seq]

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is characterized by disruption of tissue development and homeostatic pathways. Here, using genetic fate mapping and murine ACC models, we have identified a population of adrenocortical stem cells that express Delta-like non-canonical Notch ligand 1 (DLK1). These cells are active during development, near dormant postnatally but are re-expressed in ACC. DLK1 expression is widespread in human ACC samples and independently influences recurrence-free survival. Spatial transcriptomic analysis has identified DLK1 positive ACC cells to have increased steroidogenic potential, a finding also observed in both human and murine ACC cell lines. Additionally, the cleavable DLK1 ectodomain is detectable in patients’ serum and effectively distinguishes ACC from other adrenal pathologies, offering potential diagnostic and follow-up utility for ACC patients. These data demonstrate a prognostic role for DLK1 in ACC, elucidate its hierarchical expression in homeostasis and cancer and suggest its utility as a biomarker in this malignancy.