Fibroblast

A fibroblast cell in culture.

A fibroblast is a type of cell that synthesizes the extracellular matrix and collagen, 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 a prominent nucleus with one or two nucleoli and abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum.

Function

Fibroblasts are responsible for the production of the extracellular matrix and collagen, which form the structural framework of tissues. They are also involved in the repair and maintenance of tissues. Fibroblasts play a crucial role in wound healing by migrating to the site of injury, where they proliferate and produce new extracellular matrix to replace the damaged tissue.

Development

Fibroblasts are derived from primitive mesenchyme and display the filament protein vimentin, a marker of mesodermal origin. They can also arise from epithelial cells through a process known as epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT).

Role in Disease

Fibroblasts are involved in the pathogenesis of several diseases, including fibrosis, where there is excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, and cancer, where fibroblasts can contribute to the tumor microenvironment and promote tumor growth.

Related pages

• Connective tissue
• Extracellular matrix
• Collagen
• Wound healing
• Epithelial-mesenchymal transition