Structure and function of cartilage and joints

Question 1

2. What is the cartilage matrix made up of

Answer 1

Type II collagen and proteoglycans + others depending on type of cartilage

Question 2

Explain how cartilage cells arise and how it is maintained.

Answer 2

1. Embryonic mesenchymal cells (spindle or stellate) form chondroblasts
2. Chrondroblasts deposit matrix, then become less active and become chondrocytes (cartilage maintaining cells)
3. They are surrounded by a layer of perichondrium at the periphery containing less differentiated chondroblasts
4. Growth of cartilage is by interstitial (within) and appositional growth (periphery)