Which cell type differentiates into tenocytes upon exposure to growth factors?

Tendons are specialized structures that connect muscle to bone, and tenocytes are the cells responsible for tendon formation and maintenance. Tendon progenitor cells are a specific type of stem cell that, when exposed to appropriate growth factors, can differentiate into tenocytes. Growth factors play a crucial role in directing the fate of these progenitor cells, providing the necessary signals for their maturation into functional tenocytes.

This differentiation process is essential for tissue engineering applications focused on tendon repair and regeneration, as proper tenocyte function is crucial for maintaining tendon health and integrity. Understanding the differentiation pathways of tendon progenitor cells is vital for developing effective strategies for tendon repair and regeneration, highlighting the importance of growth factors in promoting the formation of the specific cell type needed for tendon tissue engineering.