Fibroblast and keratinocyte

Fibroblasts and keratinocytes are the primary cellular components of the skin, residing in the dermis and epidermis, respectively. Keratinocytes form the outermost protective barrier of the body and are involved in immune signaling and structural integrity (StatPearls, NBK470256). Fibroblasts are responsible for synthesizing the extracellular matrix and collagen, providing structural support and playing a critical role in wound healing (StatPearls, NBK541070). The interaction between these two cell types is essential for skin homeostasis and the complex process of wound repair, where keratinocytes signal fibroblasts to produce growth factors that, in turn, stimulate keratinocyte proliferation (PubMed, 17643480). While these cells are essential for skin health, they are not specific molecular targets; rather, they are the cellular environments where various molecular targets (such as receptors or enzymes) are expressed. Dysregulation of the interaction between these two cell types is central to pathologies like chronic wounds, psoriasis, and fibrotic skin diseases.

Other names

Dermal fibroblastEpidermal keratinocyteSkin cellStroma and epithelium

Drugs typically interact with specific receptors (e.g., RAR, GR) or signaling pathways (e.g., PDGF signaling) within these cells to modulate gene expression, proliferation, and protein synthesis.