Myofibroblast progeny in wound biology and wound healing studies

Abstract

Fibroblasts and myofibroblasts play a myriad of important roles in human tissue function, especially in wound repair and healing. Among all cells, fibroblasts are group of cells that decide the status of wound as they maintain tissue homeostasis. Currently, the increase in the deleterious effects of chronic wound and their morbidity rate has necessitated the need to understand the influence of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, which chiefly originate locally from tissue-resident fibroblasts to address the same. Wound pathophysiology is complex, herein, we have discussed fibroblast and myofibroblast heterogeneity in skin and different organs by understanding the phenotypical and functional properties of each of its sub-populations in the process of wound healing. Recent advancements in fibroblast activation, differentiation to myofibroblasts, proliferation and migration are discussed in detail. Fibroblasts and myofibroblasts are key players in wound healing and wound remodelling, respectively, and their significance in wound repair is discussed. An increased understanding of their biology during wound healing also gives an opportunity to explore more of fibroblast and myofibroblast focused therapies to treat chronic wounds which are clinical challenges. In this regard, in the current review, we have described the different methods for isolation of primary fibroblasts and myofibroblasts from both animal models and humans, and their characterization. Additionally, we have also provided details on possible molecular targets for better understanding of prognosis, diagnosis and treatment of chronic wounds. Information will help both researchers and clinicians in providing molecular insight that enable them for effective chronic wound management. The knowledge of intimate dialogue between the fibroblast, sub-populations like, myofibroblast and their microenvironment, will serve useful in determining novel, efficient and specific therapeutic targets to treat pathological wound conditions.

Keywords: chronic wound; differentiation; fibroblasts; heterogeneity; myofibroblast; wound healing.