Figure 1.

Overview of the multi-dimensional heterogeneity and plasticity of fibroblasts. Long misunderstood as inert components of the skin, the current line of evidence portrays fibroblasts as diverse and versatile cells. As early as during development, the first pillar of heterogeneity is introduced into this cell population, with different embryonic origins potentially determining the eventual postnatal functionality. Their heterogeneity is further reflected in a unique adaptability and (trans)differentiability. These chameleon-like capacities translate into heterogenous phenotypic markers and transcriptomic profiles of fibroblasts. As a result, “fibroblast” is a broad umbrella term that – depending on the lens through which it is studied – conveys a varying picture of these heterogenous cells.