Chondrocytes are embedded in lacunae within the cartilage matrix to provide structural support and protection. The lacunae serve as small cavities that house the chondrocytes, allowing them to maintain their environment and promote the synthesis of the extracellular matrix. This spatial arrangement helps distribute mechanical loads and facilitates nutrient exchange, essential for the health and function of the cartilage. Additionally, being encased in lacunae helps prevent chondrocytes from being damaged by the compressive forces experienced in cartilage.
Osteocytes
In lacunae, you can find chondrocytes. Chondrocytes are cells that are responsible for maintaining the extracellular matrix of cartilage tissue.
When chondrocytes in lacunae divide and form new matrix, it leads to an expansion of the cartilage tissue from within. What is this process called?
A chondrocyte typically occupies a space within the extracellular matrix of cartilage called a lacuna. These lacunae provide a home for chondrocytes, which are the only cells found in mature cartilage tissue.
Chondrocytes in the lacunae divide and secrete matrix, allowing the cartilage to grow from within.
Lacunae in cartilage are small, hollow spaces or cavities within the cartilage matrix that house chondrocytes, the cells responsible for maintaining the cartilage. Each lacuna typically contains one or more chondrocytes, which are embedded in the surrounding extracellular matrix. These structures are crucial for the overall health and maintenance of cartilage, allowing for nutrient exchange and cellular communication. Lacunae help provide structural integrity and support to the cartilage tissue.
Chondrocytes are primarily located within the cartilage tissue of the body. They are responsible for maintaining the extracellular matrix of the cartilage and are crucial for cartilage function and health.
Cartilage, which is a supporting connective tissue Visual Anatomy and Physiology page 137
Nutrients, oxygen, etc. diffuse from nearby blood vessels through the matrix of the cartilage to reach the chondrocytes residing in their lacunae.
Lacunae
A former chondroblast that has become enclosed in a lacuna in the cartilage matrix is known as a chondrocyte. Chondrocytes are mature cartilage cells responsible for maintaining the cartilage matrix, producing and maintaining its components such as collagen and proteoglycans. When chondroblasts secrete the extracellular matrix around themselves, they become trapped in small cavities called lacunae and transition into chondrocytes.
Osteocytes. These cells are housed within the lacunae of the bone matrix and play a key role in maintaining bone health and structure.