3.1 - Intro to Skeletal Cartilages

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers the basic structure, cell types, and specific categories of skeletal cartilages based on the lecture materials.

Skeletal system

A system that includes the bones of the skeleton along with cartilages, ligaments, and other connective tissues which hold bones together and allow for movement at joints.

Chondroitin sulfates

Polysaccharides in the cartilage matrix that bind with ground substance proteins to form proteoglycans.

Proteoglycans

Molecules formed by the combination of chondroitin sulfates and ground substance proteins within the matrix of cartilage.

Chondrocytes

The specific type of cells found embedded within the cartilage matrix, also known as cartilage cells.

Lacunae

The small spaces within the cartilage matrix where chondrocytes are located.

Perichondrium

A layer of dense irregular connective tissue that encapsulates the cartilage.

Avascular

A characteristic of cartilage meaning it has no blood vessels; nutrients and metabolic wastes are moved via diffusion through the matrix.

Hyaline cartilage

The most common type of cartilage in the body, found in the rib cage and nose.

Articular cartilage

A type of hyaline cartilage found at joint articulations that lacks a perichondrium and helps cushion joints for free movement.

Fibrocartilage

A tough cartilage type containing thick bundles of collagen fibers; examples include the menisci in the knee joint and intervertebral discs.

Elastic cartilage

Cartilage containing elastic fibers, collagen, and proteoglycans; it provides rigid support and elasticity, such as in the external ear.