Summary
It is presently accepted that fibroblast/myofibroblast modulation represents a crucial
step in granulation tissue contraction and in the production of the connective tissue
deformations typical of fibrocontractive diseases. In addition to synthesizing extracellular
matrix (ECM) components, myofibroblasts can develop tensile force through the neoformation
of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) containing cytoplasmic stress fibers. Tension has
been shown to be a crucial regulator of connective tissue remodeling. In order to
coordinate tension distribution within connective tissue, cell-matrix and cell-cell
contacts appear essential. This review addresses the formation, molecular structure
and function of such structures that are characterized by their association with intracytoplasmic
actin filaments. Actin associated cell-matrix adhesions appear to provide the interface
between ECM components and intracellular stress fibers, thus contributing to the transmission
of force to the substrate and to the detection of stress level in the matrix. Cell-cell
adherens junctions appear to synchronize myofibro-blast contractile activity. Further
studies investigating the functions of these structures will be important for the
understanding of the mechanisms of granulation tissue evolution and for the planification
of strategies in view of influencing connective tissue deformations.
Keywords
α-smooth muscle actin - adherens junction - focal adhesion - wound healing - fibrosis