Characteristics of Cartilage

Study Notes

Definition and Characteristics of Cartilage

Cartilage is a type of connective tissue (CT) that is rubbery and flexible to bear mechanical stress.
It arises from the umbilical mesenchymal stem cells (UMCS).
Cartilage cells are widely separated by a considerable amount of intercellular material (matrix).
The matrix is rubbery (firm) but flexible, avascular (non-vascular), and nourished by diffusion of O2 and nutrients from the surrounding CT or synovial fluid in the joint cavities.
Cartilage has no lymph vessels and no nerves.

Functions of Cartilage

Supports tissues, tissue attachment, and weight bearing.
Provides shock-absorbing functions.
Offers a smooth sliding surface for joints, allowing for easy movement of bones.
Keeps airway patent.
Plays a role in the development and growth of bones, both before and after birth.

Composition of Cartilage

Cartilage is composed of cells, fibers, and matrix.
The cells are called chondroblasts and chondrocytes.
The fibers consist of variable amounts of collagen and elastic fibers.
The matrix is abundant, firm, and rubbery.
Cartilage is covered by a connective tissue covering called perichondrium.

Types of Cartilage

There are three types of cartilage based on the amount of ground substance and type of fibers.
The three types are:

Hyaline Cartilage

Mainly composed of type 2 collagen fibers.

Yellow Elastic Cartilage

Abundant elastic fibers and some type 2 collagen fibers.

White Fibrocartilage

Abundant type 1 collagen fibers and some type 2 collagen fibers.
Hyaline cartilage has the typical structure of cartilage, while the other types are considered variants of its basic structure.

Description

This quiz covers the unique characteristics of cartilage, a type of connective tissue that is flexible and rubbery, with cells separated by a considerable amount of intercellular material. It also explores how cartilage is avascular and nourished by diffusion.