The spelling of "cellular cartilage" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The word begins with the "s" sound, represented by the IPA symbol /s/, followed by the "eh" sound, represented by /ɛ/. The "l" sound, represented by /l/, appears twice in the word. The "y" sound, represented by /j/, is found in between the two "l" sounds. The word ends with the "er" sound, represented by /ər/. "Cellular cartilage" refers to a type of cartilage that contains cells within it.
Cellular cartilage is a type of connective tissue found in the human body. It is composed of cells called chondrocytes, which are embedded in a matrix made up of collagen, proteoglycans, and water. This matrix gives the cartilage its firm yet flexible structure.
Unlike other types of cartilage, such as hyaline cartilage or fibrocartilage, cellular cartilage has a unique cellular structure. The chondrocytes within cellular cartilage are arranged in groups or clusters called isogenous groups, separated by interterritorial matrix. The cells are surrounded by a capsule known as the perichondrium, which supplies nutrients and oxygen to the chondrocytes through diffusion.
Cellular cartilage is found in various parts of the body, including the ears, nose, respiratory tract, and parts of the skeleton such as the trachea and larynx. It provides support and maintains the shape of these structures while allowing flexibility and movement.
Despite its importance, cellular cartilage has a limited ability to repair itself when damaged or injured. This is due to the low blood supply to this tissue and the slow turnover of chondrocytes. As a result, damage to cellular cartilage often leads to the development of conditions such as osteoarthritis or cartilage degradation.
In summary, cellular cartilage is a vital type of connective tissue in the human body, composed of chondrocytes embedded in a matrix that provides structure and flexibility.
An embryonic cartilage formed chiefly of cells with very little ground substance.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "cellular cartilage" does not have a distinct etymology as it is a combination of two different words: "cellular" and "cartilage".
- "Cellular" comes from the Latin word "cellula", meaning "small room" or "cell". It refers to the structure and function of cells, which are the basic building blocks of living organisms.
- "Cartilage" comes from the Latin word "cartilago", which means "gristle". It refers to a type of connective tissue found in various parts of the body, such as the joints, nose, and ears.
When combined, "cellular cartilage" describes a specific kind of cartilage that has cells within its structure. This term is commonly used in medical and biological contexts to differentiate it from other types of cartilage, such as hyaline cartilage or fibrocartilage.