Fibroblast

Term: FibroblastDefinition: A type of cell that plays a crucial role in wound healing and tissue repair by producing collagen and other extracellular matrix components.Phonetic Pronunciation: (FYE-broh-blast)Origin: The term "fibroblast" originates from the combination of the Latin word "fibra," meaning fiber, and the Greek word "blastos," meaning germ or sprout. This reflects the cell's role in producing fibrous tissue during growth and repair processes.Significance in Asbestos Context: Fibroblasts are significant in asbestos-related issues because they are involved in the body's response to asbestos fibers. Asbestos exposure can lead to inflammation and tissue damage, prompting fibroblasts to produce excessive collagen, which can contribute to the development of fibrotic diseases such as asbestosis.Example Sentence: In patients with asbestosis, the activation of fibroblasts leads to the deposition of excessive collagen in the lungs, resulting in fibrosis.Related Terms: Collagen, extracellular matrix, asbestosis, fibrosis, inflammation.Notes: - Fibroblasts are not only involved in pathological processes but also play essential roles in normal tissue maintenance and repair. - The transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts can enhance their contractile properties, contributing further to tissue remodeling in asbestos-related diseases.