Fibroblast

Original Editor - Lucinda hampton

Top Contributors - Lucinda hampton, Vidya Acharya and Kim Jackson  

Introduction

Fibroblasts are the most common cell in connective tissue and connective tissues permanent residents. They secrete the fibers (notably collagen and elastic) and ground substance of the extracellular matrix.

Fibroblasts are often spindle-shaped with an elongated nucleus. When active fibroblasts are easily recognized by their abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum and prominent Golgi apparatus.

Adaptability

Fibroblasts are known for their ability to change function. Adipocytes, pericytes, endothelial and epithelial cells can de-differentiate into fibroblasts. Stimulation of fibroblasts further increases susceptibility to epigenetic modifications. The ability of fibroblasts to transform is partly due to the variety of cell-surface adhesion receptors (integrins, syndecans, cadherins) that facilitate the communication of fibroblasts with their surroundings. One of these well-described fibroblast transformations is the transformation of fibroblast into the myofibroblast.

Connective Tissue Repair

Connective tissue repair is carried out by new fibroblasts which are derived from cells called pericytes. Pericytes are embedded in the basement membrane of blood capillaries These new fibroblasts then migrate into wounds, following injury, and helping repair the damage.

Contractile fibroblasts, called myofibroblasts are also often generated, and these help to contract wounds.

Terminology

• Fibroblast: Synthetically active state
• Fybrocyte: Synthetically inactive state
• Tenoblast: specialised fibroblast
• Osteoblast: specialised fibroblast
• Myofibroblasts: contractile fibroblasts, having contractile properties, play a critical part in wound healing.

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