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Scar-in-a-Dish

Lab model of scar tissue formation

06 January 2020

Scar-in-a-Dish

Scarring is an essential and sometimes life-saving process. Triggered by signs of injury, cells called fibroblasts rapidly multiply to form a fibrous mesh that binds and protects the damaged tissue. In normal healing, this initial scar is later remodelled to restore flexibility and function to the tissue. But, in some instances, especially inside the body, fibroblasts can go into overdrive causing progressive, pathological scarring (fibrosis), which acts like a straitjacket rather than a band-aid hindering organ function. Researchers have now developed a model of fibrosis (pictured) that grows in a dish. Formed from stem cells that have developed into fibroblasts and other cell types, the scar persistently grows as the cells (red and green) multiply. Having a readily accessible model of fibrosis will allow researchers to both study the process and screen for drugs that might bring it to a halt.

Written by Ruth Williams

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BPoD stands for Biomedical Picture of the Day. Managed by the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences until Jul 2023, it is now run independently by a dedicated team of scientists and writers. The website aims to engage everyone, young and old, in the wonders of biology, and its influence on medicine. The ever-growing archive of more than 4000 research images documents over a decade of progress. Explore the collection and see what you discover. Images are kindly provided for inclusion on this website through the generosity of scientists across the globe.

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