Advanced Dental Admission Test (ADAT)

What is the primary role of fibroblasts in connective tissue?

1. Producing collagen and elastin fibers

2. Storing energy in the form of fat

3. Transporting nutrients through blood vessels

4. Producing blood cells

The correct answer is: Producing collagen and elastin fibers

The primary role of fibroblasts in connective tissue is to produce collagen and elastin fibers, which are essential components of the extracellular matrix. Collagen provides tensile strength and structural support to tissues, while elastin allows for elasticity and flexibility, enabling tissues to withstand stretching and deformation. These fibers are crucial for maintaining the integrity and functionality of various connective tissues, including tendons, ligaments, and the dermis layer of the skin. In contrast, other cell types and components play different roles within connective tissues. For instance, the storage of energy in the form of fat is primarily performed by adipocytes, not fibroblasts. Additionally, while blood vessels do transport nutrients, this function is carried out by the vascular system and is not a primary role of fibroblasts. Similarly, the production of blood cells takes place in the bone marrow and is facilitated by different hematopoietic stem cells, rather than by fibroblasts. Thus, fibroblasts are specifically recognized for their role in synthesizing the important structural proteins that support the matrix of connective tissue.