part of part of fibroblast kidney interstitial cell kidney interstitial fibroblast A fibroblast that is part of an interstitial compartment of a kidney. The kidney interstitial fibroblasts are crucial cells found predominantly in the interstitium of the kidneys. These cells play a significant role in maintaining kidney structure and orchestrating key physiological procedures related to kidney function. The interstitium forms a complex network with other cells, capillaries, and the renal tubules, which are crucial for maintaining kidney functions. Functionally, these cells participate in renal homeostasis by synthesizing and secreting vital extracellular matrix (ECM) components, such as collagen, proteoglycan, and fibronectin, which contribute to the structural integrity of the kidneys. Additionally, these fibroblasts provide supportive tissues to nephrons (structural and functional units of kidneys), help in regulating fluid and electrolyte balance, along with providing an arena for immune response in case of any infection or damage. They are also integral to the regulation of kidney blood flow and maintenance of tubular structures by stabilizing capillaries through synthesis of angiogenic factors. Under pathological conditions, such as renal fibrosis, kidney interstitial fibroblasts can transform into myofibroblasts, which speed up the production and deposition of extracellular matrix proteins. This overproduction can lead to scar formation and affect the kidney's functionality, often leading to a chronic and progressive loss of renal function. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) KUPO:0001102 https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_1000692 kidney interstitium