Fibroblast Cells Physiological Changes

Fibroblasts secrete extracellular matrix components of the stroma, such as collagens and fibronectin. In response to a wound or a need for tissue remodeling, they can also secrete enzymes that degrade the extracellular matrix. In addition, fibroblasts secrete a variety of factors that can stimulate or inhibit cell proliferation, differentiation, inflammation, or angiogenesis, depending on the state or need of the tissue. Fibroblasts divide relatively infrequently in resting tissues, but readily proliferate in response to tissue injury. This proliferation is generally driven by growth factors released from platelets upon wounding.