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Fibroblast Derived Human Engineered Connective Tissue for Screening Applications
Published on: August 20, 2021
Recent developments in myofibroblast biology: paradigms for connective tissue remodeling
Boris Hinz1, Sem H Phan, Victor J Thannickal
1Laboratory of Tissue Repair and Regeneration, Matrix Dynamics Group, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. boris.hinz@utoronto.ca
The American Journal of Pathology
|March 6, 2012
Summary
Myofibroblasts are key cells in wound healing and fibrosis. This review details their force production, differentiation factors like epigenetics, and roles in diseases, exploring therapeutic strategies.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Fibrosis Research
- Tissue Remodeling
Background:
- Myofibroblasts play crucial roles in wound healing and fibrotic diseases.
- Recent research has significantly advanced understanding of myofibroblast biology.
- This review consolidates key findings in myofibroblast research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize recent advances in myofibroblast biology.
- To explore factors influencing myofibroblast differentiation and behavior.
- To review therapeutic strategies targeting myofibroblasts.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent advances in myofibroblast research.
- Analysis of studies on myofibroblast force production and connective tissue remodeling.
- Examination of factors controlling alpha-smooth muscle actin expression.
- Review of epigenetic factors (DNA methylation, microRNAs, histone modification) in myofibroblast differentiation.
- Investigation of myofibroblast roles in various fibrotic conditions and tumors.
- Summary of in vitro and in vivo strategies to modulate myofibroblast activity.
Main Results:
- Myofibroblasts generate force crucial for tissue remodeling.
- Alpha-smooth muscle actin expression is a key marker and functional component.
- Epigenetic factors significantly influence myofibroblast differentiation from precursor cells.
- Myofibroblasts are implicated in systemic sclerosis, kidney, liver, lung fibrosis, and tumor stroma.
- Emerging strategies aim to therapeutically target myofibroblast behavior.
Conclusions:
- Understanding myofibroblast biology is essential for treating fibrotic diseases.
- Epigenetic regulation is a critical aspect of myofibroblast differentiation.
- Targeting myofibroblasts offers potential therapeutic avenues for various fibrotic conditions and cancer.
- Further research into myofibroblast modulation is needed for effective disease treatment.
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