During the process of connective tissue repair, which cell type predominantly synthesizes new extracellular matrix components?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option B
- During the process of connective tissue repair, the primary goal is to restore the structural integrity of the damaged tissue by producing new extracellular matrix (ECM) components such as collagen, proteoglycans, and glycoproteins.
- Fibroblasts are the predominant cell type responsible for this task.
- They migrate to the site of injury and become activated, differentiating into myofibroblasts in some cases, which not only synthesize and secrete new collagen fibers and other ECM proteins but also contribute to wound contraction.
Other cell types mentioned in the options have different roles:
- Macrophages primarily function in phagocytosis and the secretion of cytokines that modulate inflammation and recruit fibroblasts.
- Mast cells are involved in the inflammatory response by releasing histamine and other mediators but do not synthesize ECM.
- Endothelial cells are essential for angiogenesis, forming new blood vessels to supply nutrients to the healing tissue but are not directly involved in ECM production.
Therefore, the correct answer is Fibroblasts because they are the main cells that synthesize and deposit new extracellular matrix components essential for connective tissue repair.
Reference: Robbins Basic Pathology, 10th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 4: Tissue Repair and Wound Healing
- Fibroblasts are the predominant cell type responsible for this task.
- They migrate to the site of injury and become activated, differentiating into myofibroblasts in some cases, which not only synthesize and secrete new collagen fibers and other ECM proteins but also contribute to wound contraction.
Other cell types mentioned in the options have different roles:
- Macrophages primarily function in phagocytosis and the secretion of cytokines that modulate inflammation and recruit fibroblasts.
- Mast cells are involved in the inflammatory response by releasing histamine and other mediators but do not synthesize ECM.
- Endothelial cells are essential for angiogenesis, forming new blood vessels to supply nutrients to the healing tissue but are not directly involved in ECM production.
Therefore, the correct answer is Fibroblasts because they are the main cells that synthesize and deposit new extracellular matrix components essential for connective tissue repair.
Reference: Robbins Basic Pathology, 10th Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 4: Tissue Repair and Wound Healing
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