Epicardial Fibroblasts (EpCF)

Epicardial fibroblasts are specialized type of fibroblast that play a crucial role in the heart, specifically in Epicardial fibroblasts are another vital cell population located in the outermost layer of the heart, known as the epicardium. These specialized fibroblasts play a crucial role in heart development, repair, and maintenance. The epicardium is a membranous structure that covers the surface of the heart and serves as a source of cells that contribute to the formation of the coronary vasculature and the cardiac fibroblast population.

Epicardial fibroblasts are responsible for producing and maintaining the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the epicardium, which provides structural support and influences cell signaling in the heart. These fibroblasts also play a key role in regulating inflammation, fibrosis, and tissue remodeling in response to injury or pathological stimuli.

In addition to their role in maintaining cardiac structure and function, epicardial fibroblasts have been shown to possess regenerative potential in the adult heart. Studies have demonstrated that these cells can contribute to cardiac repair and regeneration following injury by differentiating into various cell types, including cardiac fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells, and potentially cardiomyocytes.