Fb

General Information
Latin	fibroblastus
Greek
TA98
TA2
FMA
Details
System	Connective tissue
Artery
Vein
Nerve
Lymphatic drainage
Precursor	Mesenchymal stem cell
Function	Extracellular matrix production
Identifiers
Clinical significance
Notes

A fibroblast is a type of biological cell that synthesizes the extracellular matrix and collagen, produces the structural framework (stroma) for animal tissues, and plays a critical role in wound healing. Fibroblasts are the most common cells of connective tissue in animals.

Structure

Fibroblasts are large, flat, elongated (spindle-shaped) cells possessing processes extending out from the ends of the cell body. They have an oval, flat, and granular nucleus. The cytoplasm is rich in endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, which are involved in the synthesis and secretion of proteins and other macromolecules.

Function

Fibroblasts are responsible for the production of the extracellular matrix and collagen, which form the structural framework of tissues. They play a crucial role in tissue repair and wound healing. Fibroblasts secrete precursors of the extracellular matrix, which is necessary for the formation of connective tissue and the healing of wounds.

Extracellular Matrix Production

The extracellular matrix is composed of collagen, glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins. Fibroblasts synthesize these components and secrete them into the extracellular space, where they assemble into a matrix that provides structural support to tissues.

Role in Wound Healing

During the process of wound healing, fibroblasts migrate to the site of injury, where they proliferate and produce new extracellular matrix. This process is essential for the repair of damaged tissue and the restoration of tissue integrity.

Development

Fibroblasts are derived from mesenchymal stem cells, which are multipotent stromal cells that can differentiate into a variety of cell types, including fibroblasts, osteoblasts, chondrocytes, and adipocytes.

Types

Fibroblasts can be classified into different types based on their function and location in the body. Some of the specialized types include:

• Myofibroblasts: These are fibroblasts that have contractile properties and are involved in wound contraction.
• Dermal fibroblasts: Found in the dermis of the skin, they are involved in the production of the extracellular matrix of the skin.
• Cardiac fibroblasts: These fibroblasts are found in the heart and play a role in the maintenance of the cardiac extracellular matrix.

Clinical Significance

Fibroblasts are involved in a variety of pathological conditions, including fibrosis, where there is excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, leading to tissue scarring and dysfunction. They are also involved in the formation of keloids and hypertrophic scars.

Research and Applications

Fibroblasts are used in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine due to their ability to produce extracellular matrix and support tissue repair. They are also used in cell culture systems to study cell behavior and interactions.

See also

• Connective tissue
• Extracellular matrix
• Wound healing
• Mesenchymal stem cell

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