Chondrocyte
Chondrocyte
Chondrocytes (pronounced: kon-dro-sites) are the only cells found in healthy cartilage. They produce and maintain the cartilaginous matrix, which consists mainly of collagen and proteoglycans.
Etymology
The term "chondrocyte" is derived from the Greek words 'chondros' meaning cartilage, and 'kytos' meaning cell.
Function
Chondrocytes are involved in the synthesis of the extracellular matrix and collagen, the main component of cartilage. They are essential for the maintenance and regeneration of cartilage. In mature cartilage, chondrocytes are usually solitary cells, but they can form clusters called isogenous groups during the growth or regeneration of cartilage.
Related Terms
- Cartilage: A resilient and smooth elastic tissue, a rubber-like padding that covers and protects the ends of long bones at the joints.
- Collagen: The most abundant protein in the body, it makes up a large part of our skin, hair, and nails.
- Proteoglycans: A type of glycoprotein that is heavily glycosylated. They are a major component of the animal extracellular matrix, the "filler" substance existing between cells in an organism.
- Extracellular matrix: A three-dimensional network of extracellular macromolecules such as collagen, enzymes, and glycoproteins that provide structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chondrocyte
- Wikipedia's article - Chondrocyte
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