Myofibroblasts in wound healing

Myofibroblasts are a type of cell that plays an important role in wound healing. They act as a scaffold and support during wound healing, helping in tissue repair and regeneration.

How to reduce myofibroblast activity to prevent or treat hypertrophic scars?

Hypertrophic scars or keloids are usually due to excessive activation and proliferation of myofibroblasts. Currently, the use of Silicone Scar Dressing can reduce scarring. The mechanism of action of silicone, including moisturizing and airtight environment, stimulates the protective properties of healthy skin and reduces myofibroblast activity and collagen formation. In addition, reduced scar edge tension also reduces the activity of myofibroblasts, as these cells respond to mechanical forces. With regard to corticosteroids, it has been shown to inhibit the expression of TGF-β1, thus inhibiting the proliferation and favoring the apoptosis of myofibroblasts. Some keloids require surgical excision, which completely removes the myofibroblasts and reduces scar formation. When surgically removing a keloid, care needs to be taken not to remove too much tissue to avoid post-operative complications.

What is the process of myofibroblasts in wound healing?

During wound healing, myofibroblasts first appear at the wound edge and form a layer of cells on the wound surface. These myofibroblasts are highly proliferative and differentiated and can divide into new myofibroblasts and differentiate into collagen and other extracellular matrix components. These components form the scaffold and foundation, providing support for neovascularization and entry of epithelial cells. Myofibroblasts can also produce growth factors and cytokines, such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), and epithelial growth factor (EGF), which can promote wound repair and regeneration. In addition, myofibroblasts can also produce hyaluronic acid, which is an important mucopolysaccharide, which helps in the adhesion and sealing of wounds and prevents wound damage from external factors.

In conclusion, myofibroblasts play an important role in wound healing. Through the study of myofibroblasts, we can better understand the process of wound healing and lead to new therapeutic methods for wound healing.