In tissue repair, myofibroblasts are responsible for wound contraction. The key cytokine that stimulates fibroblast differentiation into myofibroblasts is:

• A IL-8
• B PDGF
• C bFGF (FGF-2)
• D TGF-β1 ✓

Explanation

TGF-β1 is the most potent fibrogenic cytokine and the primary inducer of myofibroblast differentiation from quiescent fibroblasts. Myofibroblasts express alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and contract wound edges. TGF-β1 also stimulates ECM deposition and inhibits MMP-mediated matrix degradation. IL-8 is a neutrophil chemoattractant; PDGF stimulates fibroblast migration and proliferation; FGF-2 promotes angiogenesis and fibroblast proliferation.

Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.