BIOLOGY Lecture Notes - Microarchitecture, Weight-Bearing, Hyaline
Document Summary
Definition: cartilage is a flexible connective tissue found in many parts of the body. It can bend a bit, but resists stretching. Its main function is to connect bones together. It is also found in the joints, the rib cage, the ear, the nose, the throat and between the bones of the back. Function: hyaline, or articular, cartilage covers the ends of bones to create a low-friction environment and cushion at the joint surface. When cartilage in the joint is healthy, it effectively allows fluid bending/straightening motions and protects the joint against weight- bearing stresses. Structure: cartilage is a non-vascular type of supporting connective tissue that is found throughout the body . Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue that differs from bone in several ways; it is avascular and its microarchitecture is less organized than bone. What connects cartilage: cartilage is soft, gel-like padding between bones that protects joints and facilitates movement.
