Other stromal cells

Stromal cells are a heterogeneous group of connective tissue cells that provide structural support and create the microenvironment ("stroma") for parenchymal cells within an organ. They include fibroblasts, adipocytes, pericytes, and various types of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells. They produce ECM, secrete growth factors and cytokines, and play critical roles in tissue architecture, homeostasis, repair, and disease progression (e.g., in cancer).