Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of chondroblasts?
What is the primary function of chondroblasts?
How does hyaline cartilage differ from fibrocartilage?
How does hyaline cartilage differ from fibrocartilage?
Which statement about elastic cartilage is true?
Which statement about elastic cartilage is true?
Where can fibrocartilage typically be found in the body?
Where can fibrocartilage typically be found in the body?
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What is the main component of the ground substance in cartilage?
What is the main component of the ground substance in cartilage?
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Which type of cartilage is the most common in the human body?
Which type of cartilage is the most common in the human body?
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What distinguishes fibrocartilage from other types of cartilage?
What distinguishes fibrocartilage from other types of cartilage?
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Which of the following is true regarding collagen fibers in hyaline cartilage?
Which of the following is true regarding collagen fibers in hyaline cartilage?
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Which cartilage type provides the best support for structures that require flexibility?
Which cartilage type provides the best support for structures that require flexibility?
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Which characteristic is typical of chondrocytes?
Which characteristic is typical of chondrocytes?
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Which statement accurately describes the function of chondrocytes in cartilage?
Which statement accurately describes the function of chondrocytes in cartilage?
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What significant feature differentiates cartilage from other connective tissues?
What significant feature differentiates cartilage from other connective tissues?
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Which cell type is located immediately under the perichondrium?
Which cell type is located immediately under the perichondrium?
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What is the primary characteristic of the extracellular matrix of cartilage?
What is the primary characteristic of the extracellular matrix of cartilage?
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In which location is the perichondrium absent?
In which location is the perichondrium absent?
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What change occurs when chondroblasts become chondrocytes?
What change occurs when chondroblasts become chondrocytes?
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Which characteristic describes the location of chondrocytes compared to chondroblasts?
Which characteristic describes the location of chondrocytes compared to chondroblasts?
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Which type of cartilage is primarily characterized by the presence of elastic fibers?
Which type of cartilage is primarily characterized by the presence of elastic fibers?
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How are isogenic groups in cartilage formed?
How are isogenic groups in cartilage formed?
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What type of connective tissue is cartilage primarily classified as?
What type of connective tissue is cartilage primarily classified as?
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Study Notes
Cartilage Definition and Structure
- Cartilage is a firm, flexible, and strong connective tissue.
- It's composed of cells, fibers, and an intercellular matrix.
- It's avascular and nourished by diffusion of nutrients from blood vessels in the perichondrium.
- The perichondrium is a dense irregular connective tissue sheath surrounding most cartilage, except within joint capsules (e.g., joints of the knee).
Cartilage Cells
- Chondroblasts: These cells are found beneath the perichondrium, parallel to the outer fibrous layer. They're oval or spindle-shaped, with basophilic cytoplasm and a pale nucleus.
- Chondrocytes: These cells reside within spaces called lacunae. They can be single or in groups (isogenic groups), sometimes containing up to eight cells. Their cytoplasm is less basophilic, and their nuclei are deeply stained.
Extracellular Matrix Components
- Fibers: Hyaline cartilage contains type II collagen fibers. Elastic cartilage, additionally, contains elastic fibers. Fibrocartilage, along with perichondrium, contains type I collagen.
- Ground Substance: This is basophilic and composed of proteoglycans and glycoproteins.
Types of Cartilage
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Hyaline Cartilage:
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Most common type in the body.
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Matrix contains collagen fibers (type II) (not always visible with light microscopy due to similar refractive index).
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Found in costal cartilage, articular cartilage, and the trachea.
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Elastic Cartilage:
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Most flexible type.
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Matrix contains an abundant network of elastic fibers.
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Found in the ear pinna.
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Fibrocartilage:
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Intermediate between dense connective tissue and cartilage.
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Matrix contains many bundles of collagen fibers (type I).
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Chondrocytes are usually present in rows, surrounded by collagen bundles (great amounts).
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Found in intervertebral discs.
Functions and Sites
- Hyaline Cartilage: Provides support and cushioning.
- Elastic Cartilage: Maintains flexibility.
- Fibrocartilage: Provides support and strength, especially in areas subjected to pressure.
Self-Test Questions
- Which cartilage type is most flexible? Elastic cartilage.
- Which cell synthesizes cartilage proteins and fibers? Chondroblasts.
- Which cartilage type contains elastic fibers? Elastic cartilage.
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Description
This quiz covers the definition and structure of cartilage, focusing on its components such as chondroblasts, chondrocytes, and the extracellular matrix. Learn about the unique characteristics of cartilage, including its avascular nature and the role of the perichondrium. Test your knowledge on how these elements contribute to the function of this vital connective tissue.
