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Supporting Connective Tissue: Cartilage and Bone

스터디 가이드 - 스마트 노트

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Supporting Connective Tissue

Overview of Supporting Connective Tissue

Supporting connective tissues provide structural support and protection for the body. The two main types are cartilage and bone, each with specialized functions and structures.

  • Cartilage: Characterized by a gel-like ground substance, cartilage is designed for shock absorption and protection of soft tissues.

  • Bone: Composed of a calcified matrix made rigid by calcium salts and minerals, bone tissue supports body weight and provides a framework for muscle attachment.

Cartilage

Cartilage Matrix

The matrix of cartilage is a firm, gel-like substance that provides resilience and flexibility. It is composed of:

  • Proteoglycans: Large molecules derived from chondroitin sulfates that attract water and contribute to the gel-like consistency.

  • Ground Substance Proteins: These proteins help maintain the structure and function of the matrix.

  • Chondrocytes: Specialized cells that produce and maintain the cartilage matrix. They are located within small spaces called lacunae (singular: lacuna).

Example: The image provided shows chondrocytes within lacunae, a hallmark of cartilage tissue.

Functions of Cartilage

  • Provides flexible support to various structures.

  • Reduces friction and absorbs shock in joints.

  • Forms the template for bone development in the embryo (endochondral ossification).

Bone

Bone Matrix and Structure

Bone tissue is a rigid form of connective tissue that supports body weight and protects internal organs. Its matrix is:

  • Calcified: Hardened by the deposition of calcium salts and minerals, making it strong and durable.

  • Weight Support: The rigidity of bone allows it to bear the weight of the body and serve as a lever for muscle action.

Comparison of Cartilage and Bone

Both cartilage and bone are types of supporting connective tissue, but they differ in structure, composition, and function.

Feature

Cartilage

Bone

Matrix

Gel-like, rich in proteoglycans

Calcified, rich in calcium salts

Cells

Chondrocytes in lacunae

Osteocytes in lacunae

Vascularity

Avascular (no blood vessels)

Highly vascular

Function

Shock absorption, flexible support

Weight support, protection, mineral storage

Key Terms

  • Chondrocyte: A cell that produces and maintains the cartilaginous matrix.

  • Lacuna (plural: lacunae): A small cavity within the matrix that houses a chondrocyte or osteocyte.

  • Proteoglycan: A compound consisting of a protein bonded to glycosaminoglycan groups, present especially in connective tissue.

  • Calcification: The process by which calcium salts build up in body tissue, causing the tissue to harden.

Additional info:

  • Cartilage is avascular, meaning it does not contain blood vessels. Nutrients diffuse through the matrix to reach chondrocytes.

  • Bone is highly vascularized, allowing for efficient nutrient and waste exchange.

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