Cartilage is a type of avascular tissue with a highly specialized extracellular matrix that contains chondrocytes. The condrocytes produce and maintain the extracellular matrix. The root term meaning [cartilage] is [-chondr-], which originatesfrom the Greek [χόνδρος] or [chondros] meaning "cartilage" or "gristle". The Latin equivalent is [cartilago] giving us the synonymous root term [-cartilag-], from which [cartilage] arises.
The matrix contains large amounts of glicosaminoglycans, which allows for easy diffusion of substances from surrounding structures and blood vessels. Being avascular, cartilage does not have its own blood supply. The extracellular matrix also has large quantities of hyaluronic acid, which allows cartilage a weight-bearing capacity. This is why cartilage is particularly useful in bony joints and covering articular surfaces.
There are three types of cartilage present in the human body:
• Elastic cartilage: This type of cartilage is characterized by elastic fibers, usually in layers or lamellae
• Fibrocartilage: This type of cartilage is characterized by large bundles of collagen, making it lok and feel fibrous
• Hyaline cartilage: This type of cartilage is characterized by an homogenous amorphous matrix
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