Which cell is described as an active fibroblast?

Which cell is described as an active fibroblast?

• A. Active fibroblast
• B. Chondrocyte
• C. Macrophage
• D. Mast cell

Answer: (A)

Active fibroblasts are the cells that actively produce the extracellular matrix, especially collagen, in connective tissue. They stand out because they have abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, giving their cytoplasm a pale, basophilic appearance as they synthesize proteins. Their nucleus is typically elongated, reflecting ongoing transcription and secretion. This active protein synthesis is what defines an active fibroblast, differentiating it from fibrocytes (the less active, smaller form). Among the other options, chondrocytes reside in cartilage and have a different environment; macrophages are phagocytic immune cells; mast cells release inflammatory mediators. So the cell described as actively producing matrix—the active fibroblast—is the one that fits the description.

Active fibroblasts are the cells that actively produce the extracellular matrix, especially collagen, in connective tissue. They stand out because they have abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, giving their cytoplasm a pale, basophilic appearance as they synthesize proteins. Their nucleus is typically elongated, reflecting ongoing transcription and secretion. This active protein synthesis is what defines an active fibroblast, differentiating it from fibrocytes (the less active, smaller form).

Among the other options, chondrocytes reside in cartilage and have a different environment; macrophages are phagocytic immune cells; mast cells release inflammatory mediators. So the cell described as actively producing matrix—the active fibroblast—is the one that fits the description.