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Questions and Answers
What is the structure of cartilage?
What is the structure of cartilage?
What is the primary function of cartilage in joints?
What is the primary function of cartilage in joints?
Absorbs and cushions compression
Cartilage heals quickly due to its vascular nature.
Cartilage heals quickly due to its vascular nature.
False
What are the cells of cartilage called?
What are the cells of cartilage called?
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Which type of cartilage is most abundant?
Which type of cartilage is most abundant?
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What role does chondroitin sulfate play in cartilage?
What role does chondroitin sulfate play in cartilage?
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Match the types of cartilage with their characteristics:
Match the types of cartilage with their characteristics:
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The ______ contains large amounts of GAGs, particularly chrondroitin sulfate.
The ______ contains large amounts of GAGs, particularly chrondroitin sulfate.
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Study Notes
Cartilage Structure
- Resilient and flexible; withstands tension and compression.
- Avascular and lacks innervation; nutrients are obtained via diffusion from surrounding connective tissue (perichondrium).
- Composed of approximately 80% water; contains ground substance rich in glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) like chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid.
- Contains fibers such as collagen and, occasionally, elastin.
Cartilage Function
- Cartilaginous rings in the trachea maintain structural integrity while allowing flexibility.
- Acts as a cushion to absorb impact during activities like jumping, enabling smooth movement in joints.
- Provides resilience, allowing cartilage to rebound after compression and facilitating nutrient diffusion to chondrocytes.
Cartilage Injuries
- Cartilage heals slowly due to its avascular nature and the limited division of aging chondrocytes.
- Sports injuries to cartilage can lead to prolonged recovery times.
- In later life, cartilage may calcify or ossify, hindering oxygen and nutrient diffusion and resulting in chondrocyte death.
Cartilage Damage with Age
- Stages of cartilage damage can be visualized through specific conditions and reparative processes.
- Normal cartilage appears smooth; erosions and ulcerations signify degeneration.
- Marginal osteophytes (bone spurs) indicate joint surface damage and could lead to arthritis, becoming more painful with age and repeated injuries.
Cartilage Cells
- Chondrocytes are the primary cells in cartilage, found singly or in clusters within lacunae.
- As they secrete the matrix, chondrocytes become trapped, forming clusters from single progenitors.
- Lacking blood vessels or nerves, chondrocytes obtain nutrients via diffusion through the extracellular matrix from the perichondrium.
- There are three types of cartilage: hyaline, elastic, and fibrocartilage, classified by predominant fiber types.
Cartilage Classes
- Three primary classes of cartilage: hyaline, elastic, and fibrocartilage.
Hyaline Cartilage Structure
- Most abundant type of cartilage, appearing glassy and shiny.
- Composed of an amorphous but firm matrix with a network of fine, imperceptible collagen fibers.
- Chondroblasts produce the matrix, with mature chondrocytes residing in lacunae; about 40% of the matrix consists of collagen fibers.
Hyaline Cartilage Function
- Provides support and reinforcement with resilient cushioning properties.
- Effective in resisting compressive stress, playing a crucial role in body structures and joints.
Hyaline Cartilage Location
- Found in the embryonic skeleton, on ends of long bones within joints, in costal cartilages of ribs, and forming the nose, trachea, and larynx.
- Most of the fetal skeleton is initially cartilaginous and later replaced by bone.
Elastic Cartilage Structure
- Elastic cartilage has limited distribution and a distinct yellow appearance when fresh, offering flexibility and strength.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the structure and properties of cartilage with these flashcards. Learn about its function, composition, and importance in the body. This resource is perfect for students studying anatomy and physiology.
