Modulation of fibroblast proliferation by oxygen free radicals

The major unexplained phenomenon in fibrotic conditions is an increase in replicating fibroblasts. In this report we present evidence that oxygen free radicals can both stimulate and inhibit proliferation of cultured human fibroblasts, and that fibroblasts themselves release superoxide (O2.-) free r...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Biochemical journal 1990-02, Vol.265 (3), p.659-665
Main Authors: Murrell, G A, Francis, M J, Bromley, L
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Cell Division
Cells, Cultured
Fibroblasts - cytology
Fibroblasts - metabolism
Free Radicals
Humans
Hypoxanthine
Hypoxanthines - metabolism
Oxygen
Superoxides - metabolism
Xanthine Oxidase - metabolism
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Summary:The major unexplained phenomenon in fibrotic conditions is an increase in replicating fibroblasts. In this report we present evidence that oxygen free radicals can both stimulate and inhibit proliferation of cultured human fibroblasts, and that fibroblasts themselves release superoxide (O2.-) free radicals. Fibroblasts released O2.- in concentrations which stimulated proliferation, a finding confirmed by a dose-dependent inhibition of proliferation by free radical scavengers. Oxygen free radicals released by a host of agents may thus provide a very fast, specific and sensitive trigger for fibroblast proliferation. Prolonged stimulation may result in fibrosis, and agents which inhibit free radical release may have a role in the prevention of fibrosis.
ISSN:0264-6021
1470-8728
DOI:10.1042/bj2650659