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Updated: Jul 19, 2026
12:37
3D Hydrogel Scaffolds for Articular Chondrocyte Culture and Cartilage Generation
Published on: October 7, 2015
Cell columns in articular cartilage physes questioned: a review
1University of London, 2 Manorside, Barnet, Hertfordshire, UK. paulbyers@waitrose.com.uk
Osteoarthritis and Cartilage
|October 26, 2005
Summary
This study supports a dual pattern of ossification in growth cartilage, differing between articular and metaphyseal physes. Further research is recommended to refine understanding of these distinct cellular organizations.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Developmental Biology
- Histology
Background:
- The existing understanding of growth cartilage ossification suggests a single pattern.
- Previous research proposed distinct cellular organization and ossification patterns between articular and metaphyseal physes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature for evidence supporting the dual ossification patterns in growth cartilage.
- To investigate differences in cellular organization and ossification between articular growth cartilage and the metaphyseal physis.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search using Medline.
- Inclusion of references from found articles and textbooks.
- Utilized resources from the Royal Society of Medicine, The Wellcome Trust, and the British Library.
Main Results:
- Nine authors' observations supported the dual pattern of physes.
- Some articles favoring a single pattern contained illustrations inconsistent with their claims, suggesting duality.
- The role of osteoclasts in articular physes ossification is debated, with limited quantitative data and a proposal for mathematical modeling.
Conclusions:
- Evidence supports a modified understanding of articular cartilage, favoring dual ossification patterns.
- Further testing is recommended to augment the hypothesis.
- Specific lines of inquiry are suggested for future research.
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