Which feature, visible in histological images, distinguishes cartilage from connective tissue proper?

• A. Presence of chondrocytes within lacunae
• B. Abundant collagen fibers arranged in parallel bundles
• C. Highly vascularized tissue
• D. Loose arrangement of fibroblasts

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the question: The problem asks for a distinguishing feature visible in histological images that separates cartilage from connective tissue proper. This requires knowledge of the structural and cellular differences between these tissues.
2. Recall the defining characteristics of cartilage: Cartilage is a specialized connective tissue that contains chondrocytes (cartilage cells) housed within spaces called lacunae. This feature is unique to cartilage and is visible in histological images.
3. Compare connective tissue proper: Connective tissue proper includes loose and dense connective tissues, which are characterized by fibroblasts, collagen fibers, and varying degrees of vascularization. Unlike cartilage, connective tissue proper does not have chondrocytes within lacunae.
4. Evaluate the options: Analyze each option provided: (1) Presence of chondrocytes within lacunae is unique to cartilage, (2) Abundant collagen fibers arranged in parallel bundles is typical of dense connective tissue proper, (3) Highly vascularized tissue is a feature of connective tissue proper but not cartilage, (4) Loose arrangement of fibroblasts is characteristic of loose connective tissue proper.
5. Conclude the distinguishing feature: Based on the analysis, the presence of chondrocytes within lacunae is the histological feature that distinguishes cartilage from connective tissue proper.