Cartilage Flashcards
What is the function of cartilage in skeletal development?
Cartilage serves as a template for bone formation before being replaced by mineralized bone tissue.
What type of cells produce the cartilage matrix?
Chondroblasts produce the semi-solid matrix of cartilage.
What happens when chondroblasts become trapped in the matrix?
They transform into chondrocytes, which are mature cartilage cells.
Why does cartilage heal slowly?
Because it is avascular (lacks blood vessels), so nutrients and waste exchange occur through diffusion.
What are the three types of cartilage?
1️⃣ Hyaline cartilage 🩻
2️⃣ Fibrocartilage 🏋️
3️⃣ Elastic cartilage 🎻
Where is hyaline cartilage found?
Rib cage 🫁, nose 👃, and joint surfaces 🦴.
What makes fibrocartilage unique?
It has thick bundles of collagen fibers and is highly shock-absorbing.
Where is fibrocartilage found?
Intervertebral discs ⚖️ & menisci of the knee 🦵.
What makes elastic cartilage different from the other two types?
It contains elastic fibers, making it flexible & resilient.
Where is elastic cartilage found?
External ear 👂 & epiglottis 🗣️.
What is the semi-solid matrix made of?
🧪 Hyaluronic acid
🔗 Chondroitin sulfate
🏗️ Collagen fibers
💧 Water
What type of tissue is cartilage
Connective
What is cartilage composed of?
Chondroitin sulfates -> proteoglycans
Chondrocytes (cartilage cells)
Perichondrium
