Abstract
Fibroblasts cultured in collagen matrices have been used to develop in vitro models of the wound contraction process. Contraction of floating matrices resembles initial wound contraction, contraction of attached matrices resembles granulation tissue formation, and contraction of stressed matrices resembles granulation tissue contraction and regression at the end of repair. Studies in our laboratory have focused on contraction of stressed matrices. The basal component of stressed matrix contraction results in plasma-membrane ectocytosis, actin cytoskeletal disruption, Ca2+ uptake, stimulation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase signaling pathways, and transcriptional activation of c-fos and other immediate early genes. The stimulated component of stressed matrix contraction (stimulated by serum or lysophosphatidic acid) results in actin cytoskeletal retraction and growth-factor desensitization. Subsequently, the cells become quiescent and regress through apoptosis.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
