Human Pancreatic Stellate Cells

Description

Human Pancreatic Stellate Cells (PSCs) are isolated from human pancreatic tissue and play an important role in desmoplastic reaction associated with pancreatic diseases. Morphologically, PSCs display a star-like shape with cytoplasmic processes and exhibit a quiescent or activated phenotype depending on the microenvironment. PSCs are subject to regulation by both autocrine and paracrine factors. They share a multitude of characteristics with their hepatic counterparts. In a resting state, they synthesize and secrete a small amount of ECM components, such as collagen, fibronectin, and laminin to maintain the normal structure and function of pancreatic tissue. Upon pancreatic injury or inflammation, PSCs become activated, markedly upregulating ECM synthesis and secretion, thereby driving pancreatic fibrosis—a key pathological feature in chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer progression. As specialized stellate cells within the pancreatic cell microenvironment, PSCs critically influence tissue remodeling, stromal–epithelial interactions, and disease progression in pancreatic disorders.