Influence of circulating fibrocytes on the growth, proliferation and migration of keratinocytes and fibroblasts

Circulating fibrocytes (CFs) exhibit an extraordinary degree of plasticity and growth factor repertoire, and because of this they have been investigated for their role in the repair and regeneration of damaged tissues, but yet not adequately for their role in wound healing. In the present study, CFs were co-cultured with keratinocytes (KCs) or fibroblasts (Fbs) and the influences of CFs on the growth, proliferation and migration of KCs and Fbs were investigated. Our results showed that the CFs in the co-culture system could inhibit the growth, proliferation and migration of KCs, while CFs promoted the growth and proliferation of Fbs. Our study demonstrates that CFs can regulate the functions of Fbs, which may be a possible cause of fibrosis.