What is fibroblast made up of?
Written by Ian Jay B. Francisco
Reviewed by Dr. Reuben J C. Los Baños, Ph.D.
Connective tissues occur throughout the body. They provide support, bind stuff together, and protect the body’s organs. Looking at a microscopic photo of connective tissues, you will see fibroblasts.
Connective tissues consist of cells, protein fibers, and a ground substance. Fibroblasts are the most common cell type that you can find in a connective tissue specimen. They produce and maintain the extracellular matrix of your connective tissues.
Fibroblasts secrete collagen proteins that support many tissues. They also help heal wounds. These cells are spindle-shaped, elongated, and have several processes that extend their bodies.
You can find them in the skin, tendons, and other tough tissues of the body. These are collagen-secreting cells. They can be grown in a lab for genotypic and phenotypic testing of the associated disease.
Like any other cell, organelles make up fibroblasts. They have an oval nucleus that is euchromatic. You would find an abundant endoplasmic reticulum and a well-developed Golgi apparatus. It is because they produce large amounts of protein.
The more minor, inactive form of this cell is the fibrocyte. The cells differ because the nuclei of fibrocytes are heterochromatic. Their cytoplasm and organelles are also lesser in comparison to fibroblasts.
Fibroblasts produce extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, such as collagen and elastin. Aside from these proteins, the ECM also contains glycosaminoglycans, reticular fibers, and glycoproteins.
Contractile myofibroblasts, which are essential in wound healing, are unique fibroblasts. When tissue undergoes damage, fibrocytes become stimulated. They then undergo mitosis or multiplication by replication and division.
What is produced by fibroblasts?
Aside from tissue repair, fibroblasts have other functions. They are responsible for regulating and maintaining the body’s connective tissues. They achieve this by producing fibrous proteins and ground substances.
The ECM’s compositions are fibrous proteins and ground substances produced by fibroblasts. It provides an adjustable structural base for tissue growth and stores growth factors. The ECM also transmits signals within the tissue and acts as an adhesive substrate.
Fibrin, fibronectin, and collagen are the fibrous proteins produced by fibroblasts. Collagen provides the mechanical strength required for tissue formation. Meanwhile, fibrin and fibronectin give the basic framework for cell adhesion.
The ground substance is the collection of the ECM’s non-fibrous proteins. It is a clear gel that fills in cell gaps and helps tissues resist compression.
Glycosaminoglycans are long unbranched polysaccharide chains that you can find in-ground substances. An example would be proteoglycan. It plays a role in growth factor propagation and enzyme regulation.
Fibers and connector proteins produced by fibroblasts give tissues their structure. Reciprocal positive feedback regulation of these proteins can promote profibrotic myofibroblast differentiation. ECM structures can serve as lamina delineating borders separating distinct cell types
Fibroblasts secrete a diverse array of structural proteins with unique properties. Its rope-shaped triple-stranded helical tertiary protein structure reinforces its tensile strength. This structure also prevents overstretching.
Elastin proteins form cross-linked but unstructured elastic networks that stretch without breaking. Skin and lung tissues differ in their expression of collagen and elastin proteins. Moreover, fibrosis pathology includes an increase in the relative balance of collagen.
How do fibroblasts make collagen?
Like all other proteins, collagen’s components are amino acids. It supports extracellular connective tissue structure. Collagen synthesis occurs both inside and outside your fibroblasts.
Its rigidity and stretch resistance allow it to be a part of your skin, tendons, bones, and ligaments. Amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins, also make up collagen. Collagen’s primary amino acid sequence is glycine-proline-X.
Collagen has three chains. The chains form a triple helix. Glycine allows the chain to create a closed configuration and withstand stress. Its synthesis usually occurs in fibroblasts.
Outlined below are the mechanisms involved in the synthesis of collagen.
Intracellular synthesis
mRNA transcription in the nucleus
- Transcription of genes for pro-a1 and pro-a2 chains.
Translation
- Translation requires mRNA to interact with ribosomes in the cytoplasm.
- In the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), it undergoes modification after translation.
Modifications after translation
- From there, the chain undergoes three alterations to create procollagen.
- Removal of N-terminal signal peptide
- Addition of hydroxyl groups by hydroxylase enzymes to lysine and proline residues
- Selective hydroxyl-lysine glycosylation with galactose and glucose b
- Three hydroxylated and glycosylated pro-a-chains form a triple helix through zipper folding. Three left-handed helices wrapped into a right-handed coil.
- The procollagen molecule now enters the Golgi apparatus for final alterations and assembly.
Extracellular synthesis
Cleavage of the propeptide
- Collagen peptidases are enzymes that cleave procollagen and turn it into tropocollagen.
Assembly of collagen fibril
- Tropocollagen molecules form covalent bonds between each other. The catalyst for this is a copper-dependent enzyme known as lysyl oxidase.
Collagen is the body’s most prevalent protein. So, it has various types. Collagen types I through V are the most frequent, each with distinct roles.
There are concerns about collagen’s biochemical production. Clinical symptoms of collagen synthesis errors exist. Scurvy, osteogenesis imperfecta, and Ehlers–Danlos syndrome are some notable disorders.
What do fibroblasts do in the heart?
Fibroblasts are important in heart development and remodeling. But, you might not know that they are crucial in cardiac anatomy and function. The cardiac fibroblast supports and maintains normal heart function.
With their regulatory function, cardiac fibroblasts coordinate communication between components of the heart. A cardiac fibroblast is a cell that makes connective tissue. Its ECM consists of collagens, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins, unlike bones and tendons.
These cells produce periostin, vimentin, fibronectin, and collagen types I, III, V, and VI. Although they are the prominent synthesizers, other cardiac cell types also produce these.
Studies show that cardiac fibroblasts respond to injury by generating ECM components. But their activities in uninjured hearts remain unknown. Endothelial cells are the most frequent non-cardiomyocyte cell type in the heart.
Although not the majority, fibroblasts still play a role in normal heart physiology. Their mechanisms include matrix degradation, conduction system insulation, and cardiomyocyte electrical coupling. Also involved are vascular maintenance and stress sensing.
Cardiac fibroblasts regulate the heart’s basal structure and take part in wound healing. After your heart receives damage, tissue-resident fibroblasts develop into disease-activated fibroblasts and myofibroblasts.
In the past, most fibroblast studies concerned markers and in vitro models. Despite having two developmental sources, cardiac fibroblasts are the most common fibroblast source.
A novel cell type that developed during the fibrotic response is the myofibroblast. Research findings imply that an active fibroblast can revert to a resting fibroblast. But concerns remain on the role of the fibroblast in physiology and illness.
Where are fibroblasts found in the skin?
The barrier system of the body comprises the skin and its appendages, which account for approximately 16% of the body’s weight. The skin consists of an epidermis and a dermis, with the dermis being the innermost layer. Dermal fibroblasts are cells located in the dermis that play a crucial role in skin healing.
The skin protects the tissues beneath it from injury, infection, and water loss. Regulation of body temperature and reception of sensations are tasks of your skin. It also regulates sweat gland output and absorbs UV light to make vitamin D.
The dermis consists of a top papillary layer and a reticular layer that is denser and deeper in the skin. Collagenous connective tissues support the epidermis and connect the skin to the hypothalamus. In the eyelid, dermal thickness ranges from 0.6 to 3 mm.
The dermis-fascia interface is not well-defined. It is also thicker in the dorsal areas of the body. If you didn’t know, women have a thicker dermis than men.
In connective tissues, fibroblasts predominate. They help secrete extrarenal-matrix prophylactic material to keep connective tissues intact. All extracellular matrix molecules, including the primary material and strands, need precursors.
Fibroblasts, like other connective tissue cells, come from mesenchyme. The intermediate filament secretes vimentin, a protein used to identify mesodermal origins. Changing cells from one type to another happens in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition.
During certain circumstances, fibroblasts can turn into epithelial cells. Some fibroblasts make collagen, glycosaminoglycan, lattice, and elastic fibers. Glycoproteins in the EC and thymic stromal lymphopoietin cytokines are also included.
Unlike epithelium, fibroblasts are not restricted to the basal layer. They also help to build the basal layer. Because myofibroblasts make laminin chains, they don’t have follicular areas. Unlike epithelium, fibroblasts can move to the substrate layer on their own.
Fibroblasts can rebuild the structure of the skin. Injuries cause fibroblasts and mitosis to happen. These cells move to the wound, make ECM, and heal tissues during injuries. Proteins in the extracellular matrix help inflammatory cells move and form granular tissues.
Granular tissue growth allows keratinocytes to strengthen the epithelial tissues. The fibroblasts make contractile elements that help close the ulcer. Type I collagen also speeds up the healing process.
Collagen is the most common ECM component, and it makes fibers that make tissues look the way they do. Precursor collagen gets released by fibroblastic cells. When injected into the skin, you can use fibroblasts to synthesize new skin tissue.
How do fibroblasts heal wounds?
Fibroblasts are one of the most common cell types in connective tissues, and they make up a lot of them. They oversee keeping the body’s tissues in balance under normal conditions. They are also involved with wound healing.
In injury, fibroblasts become activated and become myofibroblasts. This event causes contractions and makes ECM proteins to help close the wound. Both fibroblasts and myofibroblasts generate contractile forces, which allow the injury to close.
Inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling are three typical stages of wound healing. It happens during the growth phase, which signals granulation tissue formation. Contraction is an integral part of healing a wound because it helps close it.
Wound contraction in humans can be both good and bad. It helps wound healing by reducing the size of the wound margins, leading to the wound’s closure. Yet, excessive contraction leads to contracture and scarring, which can cause problems.
Fibroblasts are a type of cell that can be non-contractile or very contractile. You can find them in most tissues, from mesenchymal cells. Fibroblasts help keep tissues healthy by controlling the turnover of ECM.
Studies show that both fibroblasts and myofibroblasts help in the healing process. The traction of fibroblasts and the coordinated contraction of myofibroblasts are vital factors. When too many myofibroblasts are active, scar tissue can form, resulting in immobilization.
What happens to fibroblasts as we age?
Aging is a part of human nature. As all living creatures do, humans deteriorate and die when cells stop regenerating. The same is true with fibroblasts, which undergo impaired metabolism and collagen production.
As you age, your body loses fibrous tissue and slows cell turnover. There is also damage to the water barrier function. Normal physiological skin functions may decline by 50% until middle age.
Progressive tissue decay and hormonal changes are causes of intrinsic aging. Metabolic reactions such as oxidative stress can also be its cause. The elastic fibers in the dermis deteriorate, causing skin atrophy and tiny wrinkles.
Meanwhile, the causes of extrinsic aging are too much sun exposure or smoking. A decrease in antioxidant capacity makes the skin more susceptible to sun damage. Aging also results in increased reactive oxygen species produced by skin cell metabolism.
These stressors affect numerous different biochemical pathways. Effects include growth factor receptor-II deficiency and damage to the skin’s structural proteins. Furthermore, some studies indicate that both mechanisms of aging have overlapping areas.
For the skin, telomeres continue to shorten, making it difficult for cells to reproduce. The matrix and fibroblast pattern expression remains fixed in the dermis for a long time. When stimulated, the cells grow, but the telomeres stay the same length.
References:
de Araújo, R., Lôbo, M., Trindade, K., Silva, D., & Pereira, N. (2019). Fibroblast Growth Factors: A Controlling Mechanism of Skin Aging. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 32(5), 275–282.
Ivey, M. J., & Tallquist, M. D. (2016). Defining the Cardiac Fibroblast. Circulation Journal, 80(11), 2269–2276.
Kendall, R. T., & Feghali-Bostwick, C. A. (2014). Fibroblasts in fibrosis: novel roles and mediators. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 5.
Mandal, A. (2019, February 26). What are Fibroblasts? News-Medical
Nilforoushzadeh, M. A., Ahmadi Ashtiani, H. R., Jaffary, F., Jahangiri, F., Nikkhah, N., Mahmoudbeyk, M., Fard, M., Ansari, Z., & Zare, S. (2017). Dermal Fibroblast Cells: Biology and Function in Skin Regeneration. Journal of Skin and Stem Cell, In Press(In Press).
Sendic, G. (2022, March 16). Fibroblast. Kenhub.
Souders, C. A., Bowers, S. L. K., & Baudino, T. A. (2009). Cardiac Fibroblast. Circulation Research, 105(12), 1164–1176.
Wu, M., Cronin, K., & Crane, J. S. (2021, September 13). Biochemistry, Collagen Synthesis. Nih.gov; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507709/#:~:text=The%20process%20of%20collagen% 20synthesis,occurs%20both%20intracellularly%20and%20extracellularly.
Crystal R. Cassidy
MT 30 – AA
April 3, 2024
From the article, I learned that fibroblasts are found everywhere in connective tissues. They are vital for keeping tissues strong and healing wounds. I learned that they make collagen, elastin, fibrin, and other important substances that support the tissues in our body. I also learned that collagen-making by fibroblasts happens both inside and outside our cells. In the heart, they help regulate the structure and communication between heart cells. Our skin also relies on fibroblasts for healing and maintaining its structure and elasticity. I also learned that as we age, fibroblast function decreases, which can result to decreased tissue health and can lead to skin aging.
Marinella F. Boltron
BSMT-II
MT30 (LAB) – B
Fibroblasts as major cells in connective tissues, which are the most abundant tissues in the body, are essential in maintaining structural integrity, function, and recovery. They produce two primary components of connective tissues: the protein fibers and the extracellular matrix, which can be used as reference for classification. Collagen, as the fibrous proteins, provides strength and flexibility to various connective tissues such as the bones, tendons and ligaments, and skin. On the other hand, the extracellular matrix acts as a support to the surrounding cells and other materials. Moreover, I learned that there are two locations where the fibroblasts synthesize collagen: the intracellular and extracellular areas, which involve complex genetic and biochemical processes.
Additionally, fibroblasts may be tiny cells, but they are important for us to live, especially that they have a significant role in heart development and remodeling. They can be considered as “heart heroes” whenever this organ experiences damage and stress. Other than that, I realized that we tend to overlook the contribution of these cells in wound healing as when it comes to that matter, the first thing that would always come to our minds are platelets. Platelets are very important too but we also need to appreciate more the function of fibroblasts. The contractile forces that these cells generate allow the injury to close, which is an integral part of healing.
Therefore, we should value what fibroblasts do for our body to maintain its balance. Because as we grow older, these cells also deteriorate as much as we do, which is observed in impaired metabolism and collagen production. That’s why during the height of aging, weakening of bones is a common experience. No matter what we do, that is the nature of fibroblasts.
Kylemaxinne Panzo
MT 30 – AA
April 3, 2024
What I’ve learned from this article is that fibroblasts and the fibrous protein products they make which makes up the extracellular matrix (ECM) are the essential constituents of connective tissues. One protein that is highlighted here is collagen, which we have probably seen in beauty products or in food supplements. Although different collagen types have different roles, they all generally provide structural support to the ECM. This basically means that when we stretch our tendons, when we move our ligaments, or when we almost scratch our skin, collagen is there to provide rigidity and to allow stretch resistance – which is part of why they’re described as “connective” tissue as they connect different tissues and organs. For instance, a distinct fibroblast called the cardiac fibroblast helps maintain heart function with the help of other proteins. In the event of when we do get wounds in our tissues, fibroblasts (myofibroblasts) are also there to heal them as they control the turnover of the ECM. However, we shouldn’t take advantage of this and neglect our tissues, especially the skin. Aging, which can be induced by too much sun exposure, decreases the metabolism and collagen production of fibrinogens. Wrinkles are one of the many effects of this.
Eojjann Tuñacao
BSMT II | MT 30 (LEC) – AA
April 03, 2024
Truth be told, even if I had encountered the word ‘fibroblasts’ in our laboratory and lecture classes throughout studying courses under the medical technology program, I still get confused about it. Driven by it, I always find ways on how I can be able to identify it among many other elements that comprises connective tissues. In hopes of clearing my confusion, this posted article is a lifesaver for students like me who wish to know more about what fibroblasts are made up of.
When looking at slides under the microscope, the tiny cells that we can look at examining connective tissues are referred to as fibroblast. In providing a short description, what I have retained from knowing about the subject at hand is that this is a type of cell that is essential in the formation or development of connective tissues. In other words, fibroblasts aid in maintaining the structural framework of tissues, as it supports and also connects other organs or tissues that make up our system. Given this initial reflection, in continually reading the article, in hopes of finding more information related to fibroblasts, I came across knowing that fibroblasts make collagen, and the synthesis even can occur both inside and outside fibroblasts. This is my first time knowing about it, and what made me more interested is how it occurs by beginning with the mRNA transcription in the nucleus, followed by cytoplasmic translation and endoplasmic reticulum modifications such as hydroxyl group addition and glycosylation. This initial process shows representation of how fibroblasts participate in other forms of function that it undergoes within the body. Delving into the complicated process necessitates a detailed investigation, revealing how various systems contribute to the overall preservation of our bodies.
Additionally, it is also intriguing to be able to learn how just like what happens in the circle of life, fibroblasts too, like us, who undergo maturation and deteriorate, also do too. This is a refreshing piece of knowledge to get a better understanding of how fibroblasts do not live up to its functions permanently. There will be a point where these little cells will experience impaired metabolism and collagen production. Fibroblasts may go through cellular decline as we age, which means they lose their capacity to divide and function effectively due to changes in hormone levels and oxidative stress. All of this is normal, and is bound to happen to keep up with maintaining homeostasis inside our bodies. That is why, with all the information I have gathered about fibroblasts, and how they are made up, I can now slowly say that these cells, even though minute, have great contributions to our body.
Princess Niña M. Millor
BMT – II | MT 30 (LEC) – AA
April 3, 2024
This article discusses the role of fibroblasts in our body wherein they are considered the unseen heroes of our connective tissues. In this article, I learned that Fibroblasts are like tiny cells, churning out collagen, the building block that gives our skin its strength and elasticity. They also produce other proteins and fibers, forming the extracellular matrix (ECM) – the glue that holds everything together. But fibroblasts are more than just structural support. One thing stated in this article that is notable to me is its role in wound healing. When we injure ourselves, these cells transform into action heroes called myofibroblasts. Myofibroblasts are tiny, but it pulls the wound closed with specialized contractile forces. They also lay down new ECM, creating a scaffold for new tissue to grow. As we age, these cells slow down. Collagen production dwindles, and the ECM loses its resilience. This decline contributes to wrinkles, sagging skin, and decreased wound-healing capacity. However, the role of fibroblasts in our body is very important. It may slow down but it has served its purpose for the longest time we are alive. It maintains our body’s structure, facilitating wound healing, and even influencing the visible signs of aging. We must keep our body healthy and protected to also protect what is inside of us, working their functions out in keeping us alive.
Jessa Belle T. Cabataña
BSMT- II
MT 30 (LEC)- AA
April 3, 2024
In this article, the type of tissue that is being focused is the connective tissue and the most prevalent cell type found within it upon viewing the microscope which is fibroblasts. Fibroblasts are also widespread in the body where it serves its function as a collagen-secreting cell. Collagen is a protein which is composed of amino acids and collagen synthesis happens inside and outside of fibroblasts. Its primary function is repairing the tissues because of dermal fibroblasts found in the dermis of the skin. I have also found out that women have a thicker dermis than men. Also, it is responsible for holding the connective tissues in the body.
The first thing that comes to my mind when I read the mechanisms involved in the intracellular synthesis of collagen is the central dogma. The reason is that both have mRNA transcription and translation. But in central dogma, it involves DNA replication where it is not observed in the intracellular synthesis of collagen.
The fibroblast is an important component in one of our important organs, the heart. They are responsible for the heart’s development as well as in restructuring it. This implies that fibroblasts are a very significant cell type in our body as it has various roles to play. But, we cannot deny the fact that as we age, fibroblasts will also lose its usual function in our body.
Bea Niezel T. Masayon
MT30 (LEC)- AA
April 3, 2024
I now have an in-depth understanding of connective tissues and their importance after reading about fibroblasts and their function in the body. The form and function of fibroblasts, in particular their involvement in creating and preserving the extracellular matrix (ECM) of connective tissues, is one of the most important insights I’ve gained.
In addition, understanding fibroblasts’ ability to synthesize collagen has given me a greater understanding of the complex molecular mechanisms behind tissue regeneration and repair. I now have a better understanding of the intricate processes operating the formation of collagen, from mRNA transcription to extracellular synthesis. Thus, I now recognize the dynamic nature of fibroblasts and their critical function in preserving tissue integrity in all areas of the body, including changes brought on by aging and wound healing.
Francheska D. Badon
BSMT – II | MT 30 (LEC) – AA
April 3, 2024
After reading the article “What is Fibroblasts Made of,” I gained valuable insights about its function in histology. The article’s main subject, fibroblasts, is shown to be a crucial part of the body’s connective tissue structure. I discovered that the production of essential chemicals like collagen, elastin, and fibronectin—which are necessary for preserving tissue structure and promoting processes like wound healing—is attributed to fibroblasts. In addition, this article also sheds light on the information that fibroblasts are extremely dynamic and environment-responsive cells that control remodeling, and tissue repair. Their physiological roles encompass a multitude of activities such as supporting structure, promoting tissue regeneration, and regulating immunological responses. Furthermore, under specific circumstances, fibroblasts can develop into distinct cell types, which helps with tissue regeneration and repair. It is important to also take note that fibroblasts play a crucial role in preserving tissue homeostasis and guaranteeing the appropriate operation of the body’s organs and systems.
Cliantha Marielle S. Asonan
MT 30 – AA
Activity for April 3, 2024
This was an interesting article to read! Unlike other cell types, I am actually less familiar with the fibroblast; thus, I learned many things about it from this article. I learned that their main function is to maintain the extracellular matrix by producing collagen and elastin fibers as well as fibrin, fibronectin, and ground substance, which is made possible because of their well-developed Golgi apparatus and abundant endoplasmic reticulum. It was also interesting learning about the synthesis of collagen, from the transcription of the genes for pro-a1 and pro-a2 chains to the formation of covalent bonds between the formed tropocollagen molecules through the enzymatic action of lysyl oxidase. I also learned about the importance of fibroblasts in heart development by regulating the basal structure of the heart, coordinating communication between the different components, and being involved in wound healing. I was also amazed to know that fibroblasts can turn into epithelial cells, owing to their mesenchymal origins. Finally, I learned that physical manifestations of aging such as wrinkles can be attributed to the deterioration of fibroblasts as we grow older. Deterioration is caused by exposure to the sun, smoking, and a decrease in antioxidant capacity, which would result to a slower turnover of the extracellular matrix and impaired collagen production. This then made me realize that while deterioration is inevitable, we can still do something to at least slow down the aging process, such as by reducing our sun exposure and wearing sunscreen, avoiding smoking, and eating food rich in antioxidants such as Vitamin E and Vitamin C.
Alvin Antoine Angelicus J. Jucom
BSMT-II
MT30 (LAB) – A
Fibroblasts, from what I’ve learned are abundant in our connective tissues, but they can also be found beyond said tissues such as in our skin, muscles, and heart.
Fibroblast cells are highly important in maintaining the integrity of our organs so that they may be able to function as they do. They also play a vital role in recovery in cases of injury as they are one of the primary means of healing wounds in our tissues as they activate, travel to the site, and control the turnover of extracellular matrix, which contains the protein fibers it produces (collagen for tensile strength, elastin for elasticity, fibrin for adhesion, etc.). Most notably, it is the collagen produced by the fibroblasts that is highlighted in the article. Collagen is found in (connective tissues) tendons and ligaments, (epithelial tissues) our skin, and (muscular tissues) our heart, among others, and is the reason why they remain intact because of collagen’s properties of mechanical, tensile strength and resistance. Back to fibroblasts, they support and maintain the normal function of the heart and likewise, respond to injury in such organ. Fibroblasts are also responsible for connecting our different organs, providing a structural framework in our bodily system, hence why they are heavily associated with connective tissues.
Fibroblasts, however, do not last in their ability to function the way they do in their prime. Ageing, as we all go through, hinders its metabolism and its production of fibrous proteins which give us our structure in tissues (rigidity, elasticity, among others). This manifests in the wrinkles and other notable distinctions of the skin that we see in most of our aged population. Aside from ageing, considerable extents of sun exposure and smoking can induce faster deterioration of fibroblast function as these factors can decrease antioxidant capacity in our skin. At the molecular level, our telomeres, the ends of our DNA, shorten as we age, which limits the longevity of our cell’s ability to reproduce, which for fibroblasts, means decreased capacity to produce integral protein fibers.
That is why we need to take good care of ourselves, not only our skin, but our health as well so as to provide the nutrients that all our body cells need to function normally and maintain longevity.
Carlen Faith C. Torres
MT 30 – AA
Activity for April 3, 2024
I was just reviewing for our upcoming exams this week, and I encountered the term “fibroblasts” way too many times in both Immunology & Serology and Histology lessons. Thus, reading this article somehow amazed me at how complex fibroblasts really are. While I am aware that the fibroblast is involved in the production and maintenance of the extracellular matrix of our tissues while also being included in our bodily immune system, what surprised me the most in this article is that the fibroblast is also one of the key factors that are involved in our cardiovascular system. They are relevant in heart development and remodeling and are even mentioned as crucial in cardiac anatomy and function. I am also amazed by the new knowledge that I have learned about the production of collagen as well as the fate of fibroblasts in our bodies as we grow older, which is mentioned in this article.
After reading this, I found the article to be well-crafted and also have a lot of relevant information to offer. One comment I can also make about this article is that it is comprehensible and can be recommended to new learners about the topic of fibroblasts.
Gwyneth Mae A. Kadile
MT 30 (LEC) – AA
Activity for April 3, 2024
This article provides an informative description of fibroblast. These spindle-shaped cells are much more than just structural support. They are responsible for producing and maintaining extracellular matrix (ECM), a complex of web of proteins and sugars that provides scaffolding, support, and space for other cells.
Some of the key takeaways from the article include the two main forms of fibroblasts: active fibroblasts and their less active counterparts, fibrocytes. Active fibroblasts churn out essential components of the ECM, including collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans. Collagen, for example, provides strength and flexibility, while elastin allows tissue to stretch and recoil. On the other hand, glycosaminoglycans help attract water and give the ECM its gel-like consistency.
Additionally, I have learned about the importance of fibroblasts in wound healing. Upon injury, fibroblasts transform into myofibroblasts, which contract and pull the wound closed. They also secrete collagen to rebuild damaged tissue. This process is essential for restoring the function of the organs and skin.
Overall, this article highlights the various functions of fibroblasts. From the strength of our tendons to the elasticity of our skin, fibroblasts exhibit important functions in the body.
Mariella Felisse Cubero
MT 30 (Lec) – AA
We have only recently discussed and had an exam about fibroblasts in our laboratory class so the topic is still fresh in my mind. Admittedly there are quite a few topics in this article that weren’t included in our discussion and it is very interesting to learn about them now. Particularly, I liked reading about what fibroblasts do in the heart and how crucial they are in cardiac function. I also had fun reading all about how fibroblasts make collagen. At first glance, it looked complicated, but once I did a background reading online, it became a much smoother learning process.
Kylle Christine L. Cabanog
MT30 LEC – AA
I’ve encountered the term “fibroblast” in our science classes in the past, but delving deeper into it during our histology laboratory and lecture classes has expanded my understanding. From what I’ve learned, fibroblast plays a crucial role in the formation of the connective tissue. It is responsible for synthesizing and secreting the extracellular matrix which is a unique feature of the connective tissue that surrounds living cells. What’s truly fascinating is the various and complex functions fibroblasts serve. For example, their involvement in heart development and remodeling is remarkable. Initially unaware of their significance in cardiac anatomy, I was enlightened to learn that they play an important role in maintaining normal heart function, which is nothing short of amazing. For sure there are other more miracles and wonders that fibroblasts do for our body, and for every second that we’re living, they are helping us maintain homeostasis to keep our body healthy and functioning.
Josh Nathaniel M. Gadiana
MT30 LEC – AA
I have heard about fibroblasts and its function before in my past classes in Anatomy and Physiology, but I had not read about it to this extent. Simple facts such as the fibroblast having an abundant Endoplasmic Reticulum and well-developed Golgi Body was enough to amaze me because I had not researched about how these “construction workers” functioned and instead mainly focused on the extracellular matter present in the various types of connective tissue. The process of making collagen is so much more complex that I thought, undergoing many modifications both inside and outside the cell. One major importance of your fibroblasts is the ability to heal tissue damage and injury. The proteins produced by these cells not only rebuild your lost tissue but also aid in closing wounds and inflammation. Cardiac fibroblasts, in particular, are essential in healing cardiac tissue as your cardiac muscle lacks the ability to regenerate by itself. Unfortunately, fibroblast activity deteriorates as we age but it is all part of human nature.
John Michelle M. Lagat
MT 30 – AA (LEC)
Oftentimes, we don’t pay much attention to supporting details and roles. We always look at the bigger picture, which isn’t a bad thing. Yet, most of the time, if not always, supporting details often play a much bigger role than we give them credit for. These thoughts came to mind upon reading about fibroblasts in the article and their diverse array of functions within the body. From tissue repair to contributing fibrous proteins for mechanical strength and cell adhesion, and even regulating enzyme activity through the production of ground substances, fibroblasts are integral to maintaining tissue integrity and functionality throughout the body. Their involvement extends to the heart, where they play crucial roles in development, communication, and wound healing, emphasizing their significance in cardiac anatomy and function. Moreover, as a common cell type in connective tissues, fibroblasts exhibit remarkable versatility, shifting into myofibroblasts when activated to facilitate tissue closure in the event of an injury, thereby preserving tissue health. However, aging poses a significant challenge to fibroblast function, with intrinsic and extrinsic factors leading to impaired metabolism, collagen production, and tissue decay. Understanding these complex details sheds light on the pivotal role fibroblasts play throughout the body’s lifespan, ultimately underscoring the importance of these supportive cells in comprehending complex biological processes.
After reading about fibroblasts, I’m truly amazed by how our bodies work. As a second yesr Medical Technology student, I’m grateful for the chance to explore into such fascinating topics. For me, fibroblasts may seem ordinary, but they’re actually super important. They are the unsung heroes of our connective tissues, tirelessly producing and maintaining the extracellular matrix that holds our bodies together. They’re like the behind-the-scenes heroes, keeping our tissues strong and healthy. Its amazing to know that from the heart to the skin, they’re everywhere, helping our bodies function properly and heal wounds. I learned about their shape and how they change with age is mind-blowing. It’s like discovering the secrets of how we age. In today’s health-conscious world, knowing about fibroblasts isn’t just cool, it’s essential. It inspires me to keep learning and to share this knowledge with others. I can say that this article about fibroblast is a tiny marvel, reminding me why I’m passionate about understanding our bodies and be more intellectually professional in my future workfield.
Franchezka Mia N. Amores
MT 30 – AA
The article provides a comprehensive overview of fibroblasts, the most common cell type in connective tissues. Fibroblasts produce and maintain the extracellular matrix (ECM), which provides support, binds tissues together, and protects organs. They secrete collagen proteins that support many tissues and help heal wounds. Fibroblasts produce fibrous proteins like collagen, fibrin, and fibronectin, which provide mechanical strength and a basic framework for cell adhesion. They also produce ground substances like glycosaminoglycans, which fill in cell gaps and help tissues resist compression.
I found it fascinating to learn about the role of fibroblasts in maintaining the body’s connective tissues. It’s amazing how these cells work together to provide structure and support to our bodies. The article also states the importance of fibroblasts in wound healing, which is crucial for our overall health and well-being. I was also impressed by the complexity of fibroblast function. They produce a wide range of proteins and ground substances that work together to maintain the integrity of our connective tissues. It amazes me when I think about how these cells are constantly working to keep our bodies healthy and functioning properly.
Overall, I found the article to be informative and engaging. It provided a great overview of fibroblasts and their role in maintaining the body’s connective tissues. I would recommend this article to anyone interested in learning more about the fascinating world of cells and tissues.
MT 30 – AA
SY 2024-2025
Fibroblasts are the unsung heroes of tissue repair and regeneration, tirelessly building and maintaining the body’s connective structures. Their adaptability and resilience remind us that growth and healing require both strength and flexibility.
Aiscelle Heart N. Baldomar
MT30 – DD
Fibroblast is made up of large, oval, euchromatic nucleus and an extensive network of cytoplasm containing abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum and a well-developed Golgi apparatus.