After suturing a 2-cm laceration, which factor is most instrumental for fibroblast migration during wound healing?

Fibronectin plays a crucial role in wound healing, particularly in facilitating the migration of fibroblasts. This glycoprotein is a key component of the extracellular matrix and the blood plasma, and it serves as a bridge between cells and the surrounding matrix. During wound healing, fibroblasts must migrate into the wound site to proliferate and synthesize collagen and other extracellular matrix components.

Fibronectin promotes the adhesion and migration of fibroblasts through specific binding sites that interact with cell surface receptors known as integrins. This interaction is essential for the migration process, as it provides the necessary signals for fibroblasts to move and proliferate in the newly formed tissue. Additionally, fibronectin also helps in the assembly of the extracellular matrix, further supporting the healing process.

In contrast, while collagen is a critical structural component of the extracellular matrix and serves important functions in providing tensile strength to the healing tissue, it does not have the same direct role in stimulating fibroblast migration. Heparin is primarily involved in anticoagulation and does not directly participate in fibroblast migration. Immunoglobulins play a crucial role in the immune response, but they are not involved in the migration of fibroblasts during the healing process. This makes