WANI Dictionary

Fibroblast

A fibroblast is a type of cell that secretes fibrous components such as collagen in the extracellular matrix of connective tissue.

Definitions in the literature

• Main cell type in soft connective tissue; secrets collagen and other components of extracellular matrix [1].
• A cell that secretes fibres in the extracellular matrix of connective tissue. The cells are long, flat, and star-shaped and lie close to collagen fibres. Fibroblasts are often grown in cell cultures and are used to study genetic reprogramming for cell therapy or stem cell production [2].
• A fibroblast is a type of cell that contributes to the formation of connective tissue, a fibrous cellular material that supports and connects other tissues or organs in the body. Fibroblasts secrete collagen proteins that help maintain the structural framework of tissues [3].