An immature cell from which connective tissue can develop.

• A. Furuncle
• B. Contusion
• C. Fibroblast
• D. Cryosurgery

Answer: (C)

Fibroblasts are the immature cells that form connective tissue. They actively synthesize the components of the extracellular matrix, including collagen and elastin, giving connective tissue its structure and strength. Derived from mesenchymal cells, fibroblasts lay down the substances that become the framework of connective tissue and can mature into fibrocytes as tissue develops or repairs. In healing, these cells proliferate and produce collagen to form scar tissue, driving connective tissue development. The other options aren’t cells involved in forming connective tissue—furuncle is an infection, contusion is a bruise, and cryosurgery is a freezing procedure.