Fibroblasts are among the most abundant cell types in the human body, playing crucial roles in numerous physiological processes, including the structural maintenance of the dermis, production of extracellular matrix components, and mediation of inflammatory responses. Despite their importance, fibroblasts remain one of the least characterized cell populations. The advent of single-cell analysis techniques, particularly single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), has enabled detailed investigations into fibroblast biology. In this study, we present an extensive analysis of fibroblast surface markers suitable for cell sorting and subsequent functional studies. We reviewed over three thousand research articles describing fibroblast populations and their markers, characterizing and comparing subtypes based on their surface markers, as well as their intra- and extracellular proteins. Our detailed analysis identified a variety of distinct fibroblast subpopulations, each with unique markers, characteristics dependent on their location, and the physiological or pathophysiological environment. These findings underscore the diversity of fibroblasts as a cellular population and could lead to the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools.

Advancements in single-cell analyzis technologies, particularly single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS), have enabled the analyzis of cellular diversity by providing resolutions that were not available previously. These methods enable the simultaneous analyzis of thousands of individual transcriptomes, facilitating the classification of cells into distinct subpopulations, based on transcriptomic differences, adding a new level of complexity to biomolecular and medical research. Fibroblasts, despite being one of the most abundant cell types in the human body and forming the structural backbone of tissues and organs, remained poorly characterized for a long time. This is largely due to the high morphological similarity between different types of fibroblasts and the lack of specific markers to identify distinct subpopulations. Once thought to be cells responsible solely for the synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, fibroblasts are now recognized as active participants in diverse physiological processes, including inflammation and antimicrobial responses. However, defining the molecular profile of fibroblast subpopulations remains a significant challenge. In this comprehensive review, which is based on over two thousand research articles, we focus on the identification and characterization of fibroblast subpopulations and their specific surface markers, with an emphasis on their potential as molecular targets for selective cell isolation. By analyzing surface markers, alongside intra- and extracellular protein profiles, we identified multiple fibroblast subtypes within the female reproductive system. These subtypes exhibit distinct molecular signatures and functional attributes, shaped by their anatomical localization and the surrounding physiological or pathological conditions. Our findings underscore the heterogeneity of fibroblasts and their diverse roles in various biological contexts. This improved understanding of fibroblast subpopulations paves the way for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, offering the potential for precision targeting of specific fibroblast subsets in clinical applications.

Introduction and Purpose: Virtual reality (VR) technology is being studied more and more as an effective tool in sports injury rehabilitation. This review addresses current evidence concerning the application of VR in recovery from musculoskeletal and neurological injuries, control of pain, and psychological assistance, and potential roles in rehabilitation. State of Knowledge: Evidence indicates that rehabilitation with VR enhances patient engagement with immersive and interactive therapy, which can improve motor function, balance, and functional outcomes overall. VR is used in recovery rehabilitation of ligament injuries, orthopedic surgery, stroke, spinal cord injury, and traumatic brain injury. VR also proves effective as a non-pharmacological method of pain control, with a potential reduction in analgesic needs, such as opioids. Importantly, it was also shown that VR improves mental health by decreasing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder, thereby convincing the audience about the overall benefits of VR-based rehabilitation. Methods The present paper searched the literature on electronic databases, including PubMed and ResearchGate, using the keywords "VR," "virtual reality injury," "virtual reality rehabilitation," "virtual reality pain," "virtual reality psychology," and "virtual reality cognitive function" Articles include randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews between 1999 to the present year, preferring the sources that were published from 2020 and onwards. Conclusions While VR offers a global, patient-centered approach that complements traditional rehabilitation methods, the scientific research in the field is meager. More studies are clearly warranted to establish VR's long-term effects and full potential in rehabilitation. This review highlights the current shortcomings and future promise of VR-based rehabilitation in sports injury rehabilitation.

Introduction and Purpose: Running is one of the most common activities. It is also associated with a high risk of knee joint injuries. The most common are Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS), and Patellar Tendinopathy (PT). These conditions can limit mobility and reduce quality of life. The purpose of this article is to review the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment for these conditions in runners, based on the most recent knowledge. State of Knowledge: The most frequent running-related knee injuries are PFPS, ITBS, and PT. An accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Management should be tailored to everyone, considering factors such as age and the stage of the condition. These injuries often require a break from running. Most cases improve with non-surgical treatments. Surgery is reserved for severe or persistent cases. Preventive strategies focus on addressing training mistakes, strengthening specific muscle groups, and refining running mechanics. Methods: The following paper analyzed studies found on electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, using keywords such as “knee injury”, “PFPS”, “ITBS”, “PT”, “causes of knee pain”, “treatment of knee injuries”, and “prevention of knee injuries”. Articles include randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews prioritizing resources published after 2015. Conclusions: Knee injuries in runners are multifactorial and often result from poor biomechanics, muscle imbalances, training errors, or repetitive strain. Accurate diagnosis is essential to differentiate between conditions with similar symptoms. Conservative treatment is the first-line treatment for PFPS, ITBS, and PT, and it shows good results. Surgery is reserved for treatment-resistant cases. Prevention mainly focuses on correcting training errors, strengthening key muscle groups, and improving running technique, which is a key to reducing the risk of injury.

Celiac disease (CeD) is an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten ingestion in genetically predisposed individuals. Although a strict gluten-free diet (GFD) remains the gold standard for treatment, many patients experience ongoing symptoms or fail to achieve mucosal healing due to inadvertent gluten exposure and challenges in long-term adherence. These limitations and growing understanding of the pathophysiology of CeD have prompted the development of non-dietary therapies that target the underlying immune mechanisms of CeD. Emerging therapeutic strategies aim to modulate gluten-triggered immunity, including the inhibition of tissue transglutaminase 2 (TG2), blockade of HLA-DQ2.5 and gluten peptide complexes, suppression of interleukin-15 (IL-15), and interference with gut-homing lymphocyte trafficking. Among these, the TG2 inhibitor ZED1227 has demonstrated the most advanced clinical efficacy, while IL-15–targeting agents such as AMG 714 and CALY-002 show promise, particularly in refractory CeD. However, to date, none of those novel immune-modulating strategies have yet demonstrated sufficient efficacy and safety to replace dietary therapy. Therefore, future well-designed, long-term studies are needed to validate the efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of immune-mediated therapies and to define their role in personalized management of CeD.

Mouthguards, also referred to as mouth protectors or intraoral protective devices, are designed to safeguard teeth and surrounding soft tissues from injury during sports activities. Typically made from materials such as EVA, acrylics, silicone, and polyurethane, mouthguards play a vital role in preventing dental trauma, including tooth fractures, luxation, soft tissue damage, and jaw injuries. Custom-made variants, particularly those created through digital workflows and 3D printing, offer improved comfort, occlusal fit, and protective efficiency, with ongoing advancements promising further enhancements through biocompatible, rubber-like materials. Proper occlusal adjustment, such as flat grinding, enhances contact and comfort, contributing to better user compliance. Research suggests custom mouthguards not only offer superior protection compared to over-the-counter options but may also positively influence athletic performance, including balance and muscle activation through mechanisms like concurrent activation potentiation. Despite their benefits, cost and accessibility remain barriers to widespread use. Thus, custom-made mouthguards are strongly recommended for athletes engaged in high-impact sports to ensure optimal protection and performance support.