CHONDROBLAST Meaning and
Definition
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A chondroblast is a specialized cell found in the connective tissue called cartilage, responsible for its growth and repair. The term "chondroblast" is derived from the Greek words "chondros," meaning cartilage, and "blastos," meaning bud or germ. These cells play a crucial role in the production and maintenance of cartilage, a tough yet flexible tissue that covers the ends of bones in joints and provides structural support to various body parts, such as the nose, ears, and ribcage.
Chondroblasts are derived from mesenchymal stem cells present in the connective tissue. They are characterized by their distinctive round shape and a prominent central nucleus. These cells actively synthesize and secrete the extracellular matrix (ECM) components of cartilage, including collagen fibers and proteoglycans. The ECM provides mechanical strength and elasticity to cartilage.
Chondroblasts primarily function during the early stages of cartilage development and repair. As they secrete the ECM, chondroblasts eventually become surrounded by it and differentiate into mature cells called chondrocytes. Chondrocytes, unlike chondroblasts, are embedded within the matrix and maintain its integrity throughout life.
Understanding the role of chondroblasts is vital for elucidating the processes of skeletal development, growth, and regeneration. These cells are involved in both normal physiological growth, such as during bone elongation in childhood, and pathological processes like osteoarthritis, where cartilage degeneration occurs. Researchers are studying chondroblasts to develop therapeutic strategies to enhance cartilage repair and mitigate the effects of cartilage-related disorders.
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A cell of the primitive cartilage tissue in the embryo.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CHONDROBLAST
- xhondroblast
- vhondroblast
- fhondroblast
- dhondroblast
- cgondroblast
- cbondroblast
- cnondroblast
- cjondroblast
- cuondroblast
- cyondroblast
- chindroblast
- chkndroblast
- chlndroblast
- chpndroblast
- ch0ndroblast
- ch9ndroblast
- chobdroblast
- chomdroblast
- chojdroblast
- chohdroblast
Etymology of CHONDROBLAST
The word "chondroblast" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "chondro" meaning "cartilage" and "blastos" meaning "bud" or "germ cell". In this context, "chondroblast" refers to an embryonic precursor cell responsible for the development and production of cartilage.
Similar spelling words for CHONDROBLAST
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