Which cells are capable of contraction and resemble fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells?

• A. Mast cells
• B. Macrophages
• C. Myofibroblasts
• D. Elastic fibers

Answer: (C)

These cells are myofibroblasts—the ones that blend features of fibroblasts with smooth muscle cells and can contract. They arise from fibroblasts during wound healing when signals like transforming growth factor-beta and mechanical tension are present. Their cytoskeleton includes actin organized with myosin, including alpha-smooth muscle actin, which gives them the ability to generate contractile force and draw wound edges together. At the same time, they continue to synthesize extracellular matrix like fibroblasts, supporting tissue repair and scar formation.

Mast cells are inflammatory cells packed with granules; macrophages are phagocytic immune cells; elastic fibers are structural components of the extracellular matrix, not cells.