The Role of the Myofibroblast in Fibrosis and Cancer

Dear Colleagues,

The myofibroblast is a specialized cell type known for its role in wound healing and tissue repair that has also emerged as a key player in the pathogenesis of fibrosis and cancer. Recent research highlights the dynamic and plastic nature of myofibroblasts, which can originate from various cell types, including fibroblasts, epithelial cells through epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), and endothelial cells through endothelial–mesenchymal transition (EndMT). Fibrosis, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, leads to tissue scarring and organ dysfunction. In this context, myofibroblasts are the main effector cells driving fibrotic processes in organs such as the liver, lungs, kidneys, and heart. The involvement of key signaling pathways, mechanotransduction, metabolic reprogramming, and epigenetic regulation in myofibroblast function is gaining increasing attention. In cancer, myofibroblasts contribute to the tumor microenvironment (TME), influencing tumor progression, metastasis, and therapeutic response. Recent advances have underscored the importance of myofibroblasts in fostering a pro-tumorigenic environment, promoting angiogenesis, and mediating immune evasion. Investigating the interactions between myofibroblasts and cancer cells, including the roles of cytokines, growth factors, and exosomes, can uncover novel targets for cancer therapy. The exploration of myofibroblast heterogeneity and plasticity within tumors also holds promise for the development of precision medicine approaches in oncology. By bringing together cutting-edge technologies and insights, this Special Issue aims to advance our understanding of myofibroblast biology and its implications for fibrosis and cancer, ultimately contributing to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

• Molecular and cellular mechanisms of myofibroblast activation and function in fibrosis and cancer;
• The role of myofibroblasts in organ-specific fibrotic diseases;
• Interaction between myofibroblasts and other cell types in the tumor microenvironment;
• Therapeutic approaches targeting myofibroblasts in fibrotic diseases and cancer;
• Biomarkers and imaging techniques for detecting myofibroblast activity;
• Functional investigation of myofibroblast heterogeneity in cancers.

Dr. Bingrui Li
Dr. Xuebin Fu
Dr. Xiaodong Zou
Dr. Xue Wan
Guest Editors

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• fibroblasts and myofibroblasts
• fibrosis (organ and tissue fibrosis)
• cancer
• tissue injury
• extracellular matrix