Wound healing and the role of fibroblasts

Abstract

Fibroblasts are critical in supporting normal wound healing, involved in key processes such as breaking down the fibrin clot, creating new extra cellular matrix (ECM) and collagen structures to support the other cells associated with effective wound healing, as well as contracting the wound. This article explores and summarises the research evidence on the role of fibroblasts, their origins and activation, and how they navigate the wound bed, as well as how their activity leads to wound contraction. This article also explores the local conditions at the wound site, which activate, regulate and ultimately reduce the fibroblast activity as the skin's integrity returns on healing.