Which cell type expresses alpha-smooth muscle actin in wound healing contributing to contraction?

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Multiple Choice

Which cell type expresses alpha-smooth muscle actin in wound healing contributing to contraction?

Alpha-smooth muscle actin marks the contractile phenotype of myofibroblasts. In wound healing, fibroblasts in the granulation tissue differentiate into myofibroblasts in response to transforming growth factor-beta and mechanical tension. These cells organize actin-myosin fibers containing α-SMA, enabling them to generate contraction that pulls the wound edges inward and reduces the wound size during the proliferative phase. Endothelial cells form new vessels, neutrophils are inflammatory responders, and keratinocytes drive re-epithelialization; none of these primarily rely on α-SMA–driven contraction. Thus, the cell type responsible for contraction via α-SMA is myofibroblasts.

Alpha-smooth muscle actin marks the contractile phenotype of myofibroblasts. In wound healing, fibroblasts in the granulation tissue differentiate into myofibroblasts in response to transforming growth factor-beta and mechanical tension. These cells organize actin-myosin fibers containing α-SMA, enabling them to generate contraction that pulls the wound edges inward and reduces the wound size during the proliferative phase. Endothelial cells form new vessels, neutrophils are inflammatory responders, and keratinocytes drive re-epithelialization; none of these primarily rely on α-SMA–driven contraction. Thus, the cell type responsible for contraction via α-SMA is myofibroblasts.

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