Fibroblast
Fibroblast is one of the most abundant cell types in the stroma. Fibroblasts arise from a mesenchymal origin and have an elongated spindle or star shape with numerous cytoplasmic protrusions. There is abundant smooth endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus in the cytoplasm. It has various functions and forms the basic framework of tissues and organs. Under homeostasis, this cell is responsible for maintaining the extracellular matrix (ECM). During stress, fibroblasts adapt to their environment and have the ability to respond and send local signals. At times of injury, fibroblast can transform phenotypes and synthesize the building blocks necessary to replace injured tissue. In pathological states, extracellular matrix is produced in excessive amounts and collagen is deposited unevenly, often resulting in irreversible organ dysfunction or disfigurement.
These cells produce a wide variety of products, including type I, III, and IV collagen, proteoglycans, fibronectin, laminins, glycosaminoglycans, metalloproteinases, and even prostaglandins. Synthesized cell secretions rearrange the ECM in the skin, lung, heart, kidney, liver, eye and other organs. Because fibroblasts can secrete and respond to both autocrine and paracrine signals, the ECM is in constant communication with surrounding cells. Rearrangement of the matrix by fibroblasts It occurs through the process of cleavage and cross-linking of enzymes produced in the blood, activated and regulated by pro-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors. Transcription growth factor-alpha and beta (TGF-A and TGF-B), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), epidermal growth factor (EGF) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) all have effects on fibroblast regulation.
Amniotic membrane
The amniotic membrane, or amnion, is a thin membrane located on the inside of the fetal placenta; It completely surrounds the embryo and is the structure that limits the amniotic cavity filled with amniotic fluid. In recent years, the structure and function of the amnion, especially the pluripotent properties of amniotic membrane cells, which are an attractive source for tissue transplantation, have been discovered. The amniotic membrane has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and immunological properties, as well as anti-angiogenic and pro-apoptotic properties. Structurally and thanks to the bioactive components it contains, it supports epithelialization and is a non-tumorogenic tissue. It is applied in various surgical procedures related to the amniotic membrane, wound healing, burn treatment, ocular surface reconstruction and the genitourinary system, skin, head and neck. It includes theoretical and practical training on amniotic membrane and amniotic membrane treatment.
Research and development activities include the discovery and production of products such as fibroblasts and amniotic membranes.