myofibroblastiksi

Myofibroblasts are specialized cells that play a crucial role in wound healing and tissue remodeling. They are characterized by expressing both smooth muscle actin and vimentin, proteins typically found in smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts, respectively. This dual expression gives them contractile properties, allowing them to generate force and facilitate wound closure.

These cells are derived from various precursor cells, including resident fibroblasts, pericytes, and bone marrow-derived progenitor cells. Upon injury or inflammation, these precursor cells are activated and differentiate into myofibroblasts. They then migrate to the site of damage, where they deposit extracellular matrix components such as collagen, fibronectin, and proteoglycans.

The contractile activity of myofibroblasts is essential for reducing the wound area and initiating tissue repair. They achieve this by interacting with the surrounding extracellular matrix, pulling the edges of the wound together. This process is regulated by various growth factors and cytokines, including transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), which is a key inducer of myofibroblast differentiation.

While myofibroblasts are vital for normal healing, their excessive or prolonged activity can lead to pathological conditions such as fibrosis. Fibrosis is characterized by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, resulting in tissue stiffening and impaired organ function. Examples of fibrotic diseases include liver cirrhosis, pulmonary fibrosis, and cardiac fibrosis. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate myofibroblast differentiation and activity is therefore crucial for developing therapeutic strategies to treat these debilitating conditions.