Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 10, 2026
12:37
3D Hydrogel Scaffolds for Articular Chondrocyte Culture and Cartilage Generation
Published on: October 7, 2015
20.6K
In vitro method for 3D morphometry of human articular cartilage chondrons based on micro-computed tomography.
I Kestilä1, J Thevenot2, M A Finnilä3
1Research Unit of Medical Imaging, Physics and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
Osteoarthritis and Cartilage
|May 27, 2018
Summary
A new method visualizes human articular cartilage chondrons using micro-computed tomography. Osteoarthritis progression significantly alters chondron size and shape in deeper cartilage zones.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
Background:
- Articular cartilage (AC) chondrons are crucial for joint health.
- Understanding chondron morphology changes in osteoarthritis (OA) is vital for diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- Develop a novel micro-computed tomography (microCT) protocol for visualizing human AC chondrons.
- Create and validate an algorithm for quantifying 3D chondron morphology.
- Compare chondron morphology between healthy and osteoarthritic AC.
Main Methods:
- Samples were dehydrated using hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) and imaged with microCT.
- A validated algorithm with semi-automatic segmentation quantified chondron volume, sphericity, density, and depth.
- Analysis was performed across three AC depth zones and grouped by OARSI histological grades.
Main Results:
- 1510 chondrons were analyzed using the developed protocol and algorithm.
- Chondrons in deeper zones (2 and 3) of osteoarthritic cartilage (OARSI grades 3.0-3.5) were significantly larger and less spherical than in healthy cartilage (OARSI grades 0-1.0).
- No significant difference in chondron density was observed between OA groups.
Conclusions:
- A novel 3D microCT protocol and high-throughput algorithm for quantifying chondron morphology in AC were successfully developed.
- Osteoarthritis progression demonstrably impacts 3D chondron morphology, particularly in deeper cartilage layers.
Related Concept Videos
01:10Computed Tomography
8.8K
Tomography refers to imaging by sections. Computed tomography (CT) is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses computers to analyze several cross-sectional X-rays to reveal minute details about structures in the body.
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
8.8K
01:27Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography
400
DefinitionComputed Tomography (CT) of the genitourinary (GU) tract is a non-invasive imaging modality that utilizes X-rays and computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the urinary system, encompassing the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and adjacent structures such as the adrenal glands.PurposeCT scans of the GU tract serve several diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including:Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Diseases: Detects kidney stones, tumors, cysts, and congenital...
400
01:24Area Computation by the Alternative Coordinate Method
654
The alternative coordinate method, also known as the Shoelace Formula, is a technique for determining the area of a traverse using Cartesian coordinates. This method relies on the sequential arrangement of x and y coordinates for each point of the shape, ensuring accuracy and ease of application.In this approach, each corner's x and y coordinates are listed as fractions, with the x-coordinate as the numerator and the y-coordinate as the denominator. These coordinates are arranged sequentially...
654
01:27Growth of Cartilage and Bone Tissue
4.3K
Chondrocytes form a temporary cartilaginous model by dividing and secreting a thick gel-like extracellular matrix. Once the chondrocytes undergo programmed cell death, osteoblasts enter the site of the cartilaginous model. The process of replacing the temporary cartilaginous model with bone in an ordered manner is called endochondral ossification. In endochondral ossification, not all of the cartilage is replaced by bone tissue. Some cartilage that performs a protective and supportive function...
4.3K
01:16Methods for Studying Drug Absorption: In vitro
629
In vitro experiments are crucial for understanding the transport and absorption of drugs through biological materials. These studies employ varied methods such as the diffusion cell method, the everted sac technique, and the everted ring technique.
The diffusion cell method uses a two-compartment cell, including a donor compartment with the drug solution, which simulates the environment where the drug is applied, and a receptor compartment with a buffer solution, which simulates the environment...
The diffusion cell method uses a two-compartment cell, including a donor compartment with the drug solution, which simulates the environment where the drug is applied, and a receptor compartment with a buffer solution, which simulates the environment...
629
01:17In Vitro Drug Dissolution: Alternative Methods
244
Alternative drug dissolution methods include the rotating bottle, intrinsic dissolution test, peristalsis, and the Franz diffusion cell method. The rotating bottle method involves meticulously rotating tightly capped controlled-release beads in a temperature-controlled bath. Periodic decanting of samples allows for residue assay, followed by refilling with fresh medium and testing at various pH levels to emulate the gastrointestinal tract conditions.In contrast, the intrinsic dissolution test...
244