Fibroblasts are a connective tissue cells found in all vertebrate organisms. They are usually defined as cells of mesenchymal origin that produce a variety of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, such as collagen and fibronectin, and play central roles in wound healing.
Usually, fibroblasts are identified by their spindle-shaped morphology with multiple processes, by their ability to adhere to plastic surface, and by the absence of markers specific to other cell lineages.
Fibroblasts are characterized by the lack a basement membrane and tend to display a prominent Golgi apparatus and extensive rough endoplasmic reticulum, especially when active.