Pancreatic stellate cell

Cultured pancreatic stellate cells in varel contrast microscopy
Pancreatic stellate cell activation in chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic stellate cells are activated by profibrogenic mediators, such as ethanol metabolites and cytokines/growth factors. Perpetuation of stellate cell activation under persisting pathological conditions results in pancreatic fibrosis. Illustration from (R.Jaster, 2004).[1]

Pancreatic stellate cells (PaSCs or PSCs) are myofibroblast-like cells that can switch between the quiescent and activated phenotypes, like hepatic stellate cells.[2] PaSCs reside in exocrine areas of the pancreas. When activated, PaSCs migrate to the injured location, and participate in tissue repair activities, secreting ECM components. PaSCs may play a role in the pathogenesis of pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.[1]

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