LUMCi048-A

Skin fibroblast

A fibroblast of skin.; Skin fibroblasts specialized cells found in the dermis, the middle layer of the skin, where they play critical roles in maintaining skin health and functionality. Characterized by an elongated, spindle-like shape, skin fibroblasts are the principal active cells in the connective tissue of the skin. The primary function of skin fibroblasts is the maintenance and regeneration of the extracellular matrix, which provides structural and nutritional support for other skin cells, particularly keratinocytes and epithelial cells. These cells contribute to the production of collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans - key proteins that maintain the elasticity, strength, and resilience of the skin. Through this function, skin fibroblasts help prevent skin aging and maintain tissue integrity, contributing to the skin's overall health and appearance. In addition, skin fibroblasts are implicated in the skin's wound healing process. Following injury, fibroblasts migrate to the wound site where they start proliferating and laying down new connective tissue. They play a vital role in the repair, regeneration, and healing of the skin; in the final stages of wound healing, skin fibroblasts help contract the healing tissue to minimize scar formation. Furthermore, recent research highlights their role in the immune response, with some studies indicating that skin fibroblasts can react to, and have a role in dealing with, pathogen invasion. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.)