A fibrocyte is a type of cell derived from the bone marrow that plays a crucial role in wound healing and the development of fibrosis in various tissues throughout the body.
Fibrocytes originate from hematopoietic stem cells, meaning they're born in the bone marrow. Unlike fibroblasts, which reside permanently in tissues, fibrocytes circulate in the blood and are recruited to sites of injury or inflammation. Once at the affected area, they differentiate and contribute to tissue repair, but also can contribute to excessive scarring (fibrosis).
Here's a breakdown of their key characteristics and functions:
- Origin: Derived from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow.
- Migration: Circulate in the bloodstream and migrate to sites of injury, inflammation, or tissue damage.
- Differentiation: Can differentiate into myofibroblasts, which are key players in wound contraction and collagen production.
- Collagen Production: Produce collagen, a major component of the extracellular matrix, which is essential for tissue repair but can also lead to fibrosis if produced excessively.
- Role in Fibrosis: Contribute directly to the development of fibrosis in various organs, including the lungs, skin, kidney, and liver, by excessive collagen deposition. This can occur following injury, during disease progression, or as a result of aging.
- Markers: Fibrocytes express a combination of markers including collagen I, vimentin, and the hematopoietic marker CD45.
In summary, fibrocytes are essential for normal wound healing, but their uncontrolled activity can lead to pathological fibrosis in various tissues. They are recruited from the blood and contribute to collagen production, ultimately shaping tissue repair and remodeling.
