Fibroblasts make collagens, glycosaminoglycans, reticular and elastic fibers, and glycoproteins found in the extracellular matrix. In growing individuals fibroblasts are dividing and synthesizing ground substance. Tissue damage stimulates fibrocytes and induces the mitosis of fibroblasts.
Fibroblasts can give rise to other cells, such as bone cells,fat cells, and smooth muscle cells. Note that all of these cells are of mesodermal origin.
See also: fibrocartilage callus