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Updated: Jun 5, 2026
08:06
Addressing Practical Issues in Atomic Force Microscopy-Based Micro-Indentation on Human Articular Cartilage Explants
Published on: October 28, 2022
[Articular cartilage: structure and histochemical composition].
1Departamento de Desporto e Saúde, Universidade Técnica de Lisboa, Portugal. mespanha@fmh.utl.pt
Acta Reumatologica Portuguesa
|January 20, 2011
Summary
Articular cartilage degeneration is an early sign of osteoarthritis (OA), a common joint disease. This review details normal cartilage structure, composition, and chondrocyte function for medical professionals.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Orthopedics
- Rheumatology
Context:
- Articular cartilage is crucial for synovial joint function, providing a low-friction surface and load distribution.
- Osteoarthritis (OA) involves articular cartilage degeneration, impacting joint biomechanics and function.
- OA is highly prevalent, necessitating updated knowledge for clinicians.
Purpose:
- To provide an updated review of articular cartilage structure and histochemical composition.
- To describe the extracellular matrix, including collagen and proteoglycans.
- To detail chondrocyte ultrastructure, variations with depth, and metabolism.
Summary:
- The review covers normal articular cartilage's layered architecture, viscoelasticity, and dynamic stiffness.
- Key macromolecules like collagen and proteoglycans are described.
- Chondrocyte ultrastructure and metabolic variations across cartilage depth are explained.
Impact:
- Enhances understanding of cartilage structure and composition for rheumatologists and physicians.
- Provides foundational knowledge for research into osteoarthritis pathophysiology and treatment.
- Supports the clinical management of osteoarthritis by detailing cartilage's role.
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