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Questions and Answers
What is the main function of cartilage in the skeleton?
What is the main function of cartilage in the skeleton?
What is the main component of the cartilage matrix that provides its shock-absorbing properties?
What is the main component of the cartilage matrix that provides its shock-absorbing properties?
What surrounds the cartilage and provides a vascular interface?
What surrounds the cartilage and provides a vascular interface?
What is the primary function of chondrocytes in cartilage?
What is the primary function of chondrocytes in cartilage?
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What is the characteristic of cartilage that allows it to guide the development and growth of long bones?
What is the characteristic of cartilage that allows it to guide the development and growth of long bones?
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What is the function of the perichondrium in relation to the cartilage?
What is the function of the perichondrium in relation to the cartilage?
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What is the characteristic of cartilage that allows it to provide cushioning and low-friction surfaces in joints?
What is the characteristic of cartilage that allows it to provide cushioning and low-friction surfaces in joints?
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What is the type of cartilage that lacks perichondrium and is sustained by the synovial fluid?
What is the type of cartilage that lacks perichondrium and is sustained by the synovial fluid?
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Study Notes
Cartilage Tissue
- Tough, durable form of supporting connective tissue
- Composed of high concentrations of GAGs and proteoglycans in the ECM
- Supports softer tissues in the respiratory tract, ears, and nose
- Has mechanical and protective roles within the skeleton
- Provides cushioning and low-friction surfaces in joints
- Guides development and growth of long bones
Structure of Cartilage Matrix and Cells
- Chondrocytes make up a small percentage of the cartilage mass
- Chondrocytes are located in matrix cavities (lacunae)
- Chondrocytes synthesise and maintain all ECM components
- Physical properties of cartilage depend on bonds between type II collagen, hyaluronan, and sulfated GAGs on proteoglycans
- High content of bound water enables shock absorption
Characteristics of Cartilage
- Lacks blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves
- Surrounded by dense vascularised connective tissue (perichondrium)
- Chondrocytes receive nutrients by diffusion from capillaries in the perichondrium
- Perichondrium acts as an interface between the cartilage and supported tissues
- Articular cartilage lacks perichondrium and is sustained by the synovial fluid
Types of Cartilage
- Hyaline cartilage
- Elastic cartilage
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Description
Learn about the main features, histological structure, and functions of bone and cartilaginous tissues, including types of cartilage and bone, and their mechanisms.
