GLOSSARY

The chondrocyte, or cartilage cell, is the only cell type found in mature cartilage; it builds and maintains the cartilage matrix, namely type II collagen and proteoglycans such as aggrecan.
Chondrocytes originate from precursor cells called chondroblasts.

Structure

Each chondrocyte lies within a cavity called a lacuna, and sometimes several cells are seen together in a group.
Cell density in cartilage is very low, and chondrocytes make up only a small part of the volume of articular cartilage; the rest is filled by matrix and water.

Function and Nutrition

Because cartilage has no blood vessels, chondrocytes live in a low-oxygen environment, and their nutrition depends on the diffusion