Single-cell gene expression analyses of mammalian tissues have uncovered
profound stage-specific molecular regulatory phenomena that have changed
the understanding of unique cell types and signaling pathways critical for
lineage determination, morphogenesis, and growth. We discuss here the case
for a Pediatric Cell Atlas as part of the Human Cell Atlas consortium to
provide single-cell profiles and spatial characterization of gene
expression across human tissues and organs. Such data will complement adult
and developmentally focused HCA projects to provide a rich cytogenomic
framework for understanding not only pediatric health and disease but also
environmental and genetic impacts across the human lifespan.