Which cell type has elongated nuclei typical of fibroblasts in dense connective tissue?

Which cell type has elongated nuclei typical of fibroblasts in dense connective tissue?

• A. Adipocyte
• B. Macrophage
• C. Mast cell
• D. Fibroblast

Answer: (D)

Elongated, spindle-shaped nuclei are a hallmark of fibroblasts, the cells that synthesize and remodel the extracellular matrix in connective tissue. In dense connective tissue, fibroblasts sit between thick collagen fibers and extend along their length, so their nuclei take on a long, slender shape that mirrors the cell’s stretched form. This reflects their high synthetic activity as they produce collagen and other matrix components. Adipocytes have large lipid droplets that push the nucleus to the periphery, giving a small, flattened nucleus rather than a long one. Macrophages typically have irregular or kidney‑shaped nuclei due to their phagocytic role. Mast cells have round to oval nuclei with abundant cytoplasmic granules.

Elongated, spindle-shaped nuclei are a hallmark of fibroblasts, the cells that synthesize and remodel the extracellular matrix in connective tissue. In dense connective tissue, fibroblasts sit between thick collagen fibers and extend along their length, so their nuclei take on a long, slender shape that mirrors the cell’s stretched form. This reflects their high synthetic activity as they produce collagen and other matrix components.

Adipocytes have large lipid droplets that push the nucleus to the periphery, giving a small, flattened nucleus rather than a long one. Macrophages typically have irregular or kidney‑shaped nuclei due to their phagocytic role. Mast cells have round to oval nuclei with abundant cytoplasmic granules.