Which cell is the inactive, quiescent fibroblast also known as?

Which cell is the inactive, quiescent fibroblast also known as?

• A. Chondrocyte
• B. Mast cell
• C. Fibrocyte
• D. Macrophage

Answer: (C)

In connective tissue, cells can shift between an active, build-and-repair state and a quieter, maintenance state. The inactive, quiescent form of a fibroblast is called a fibrocyte. Fibroblasts actively synthesize extracellular matrix like collagen; when the tissue doesn’t need ongoing production, many become fibrocytes, which have lower metabolic activity and help maintain the existing matrix. They can re-enter activity if repair is needed. The other cell types are distinct: chondrocytes inhabit cartilage, mast cells are involved in inflammatory responses, and macrophages are phagocytic immune cells.

In connective tissue, cells can shift between an active, build-and-repair state and a quieter, maintenance state. The inactive, quiescent form of a fibroblast is called a fibrocyte. Fibroblasts actively synthesize extracellular matrix like collagen; when the tissue doesn’t need ongoing production, many become fibrocytes, which have lower metabolic activity and help maintain the existing matrix. They can re-enter activity if repair is needed. The other cell types are distinct: chondrocytes inhabit cartilage, mast cells are involved in inflammatory responses, and macrophages are phagocytic immune cells.