Matriinisolujen

Matriinisolujen, often translated as "matrix cells" or "stromal cells" in English, is a Finnish term used in biology and medicine to refer to a population of cells within a tissue that are not the primary functional cells of that tissue. Instead, these cells form the supporting structure or stroma, providing mechanical support, regulating the extracellular matrix, and playing crucial roles in cell signaling and tissue development.

These cells are heterogeneous and their specific types and functions vary depending on the tissue. For example, in connective tissues, fibroblasts are a major type of matriinisolu, responsible for producing collagen and other components of the extracellular matrix. In the bone marrow, stromal cells support the development of blood cells. In tumors, cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are considered matriinisolujen and can contribute to tumor growth, invasion, and resistance to therapy.

Matriinisolujen are essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis and are involved in wound healing, immune responses, and organ regeneration. Their involvement in disease processes, particularly cancer, has made them a significant focus of research, with the aim of developing therapeutic strategies that target these supportive cells to inhibit disease progression. The term emphasizes their role as a foundational component of the tissue environment, rather than a specialized functional unit.