Myofibroblasts are the unique population of smooth muscle-like fibroblasts. These cells have a role in growth factors secretion, matrix deposition and degradation. Thereby, myofibroblast contributes in both human physiology and pathology. This review explains the myofibroblastic lesions, imperative role of myofibroblasts in organogenesis, repair, regeneration, inflammation and tumorigenesis.
Keywords: Myofibroblasts; oral submucous fibrosis; squamous cell carcinoma; transforming growth factor-β; α-smooth muscle actin.