| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2530131 | Current Opinion in Pharmacology | 2012 | 6 Pages |
Fibrocytes are unique cells possessing the proinflammatory properties of macrophages and the tissue remodeling properties of fibroblasts. Because these cells display a strong association with many human diseases characterized by chronic and dysregulated inflammatory responses the study of fibrocytes is important and timely. This review presents recent data regarding fibrocyte origin, identification, differentiation, and appearance in diseased tissue. The available data regarding the association of fibrocytes with several forms of chronic tissue inflammation seen in the setting of lung disease, autoimmunity, liver disease, and normal aging will be presented. This review concludes by putting these data in perspective and by suggesting future areas of investigation. It is hoped that this information will lead to additional investigations in this burgeoning field and improve our understanding of the novel role fibrocytes may play in human disease.
► Fibrocytes are bone marrow derived cells that are implicated in tissue remodeling. ► Fibrocytes demonstrate marked phenotypic plasticity in response to local cues. ► Fibrocytes secrete cytokines and present antigen in response to inflammatory stimuli. ► Fibrocytes secrete extracellular matrix components in response to TH2 cytokines. ► Fibrocytes may serve as biomarkers and/or therapeutic targets in chronic inflammatory disease.
