Role of mechanical factors in modulating cardiac fibroblast function and extracellular matrix synthesis

摘要: The cardiac fibroblast is the most abundant cell type present in myocardium and mainly responsible for deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM). Important components ECM include structural adhesive proteins such as collagen fibronectin. Excess (fibrosis) has been associated with pathophysiological mechanical overload heart. Therefore, role fibroblasts "sensing", "integrating" "responding" to stimuli great interest. development vitro strain apparatuses allowed scientists investigate effects on function. Cardiac express receptors (integrins) which couple functional responses. Mechanical stimulation shown result activation various signal transduction pathways. application defined cultured gene expression, growth factor production, release and/or bioactivity well collagenase activity. Ultimately, fibrosis develop overproduction must overcome any increases Mechanically induced upregulation production may follow direct or indirect pathways through autocrine paracrine action factors. Given complex nature interstitial milieu working heart, additional research needed further our understanding roles that play excess myocardial ECM.