Fibrocytes are bone marrow-derived mesenchymal progenitor cells that express markers
of leukocytes, haematopoietic progenitor cells, and fibroblasts. They play a pivotal
role in tissue remodelling and fibrosis in both physiologic and pathologic settings.
Fibrocytes are unique in that they are capable of differentiating into fibroblasts
and myofibroblasts, as well as adipocytes. In this review we will present data supporting
the critical role they play in the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory fibrotic diseases
of the lungs, heart and vasculature.
Keywords
Chemokines - collagens - wound healing