Chondroitic acid, a compound found in cartilage and connective tissue, has a unique spelling and pronunciation. According to IPA phonetic transcription, this word is pronounced as /kɒnˈdrɔɪtɪk ˈæsɪd/. The first part of the word "chondro" is pronounced with a hard "k" sound and the "oi" diphthong, while the second part "tic" is pronounced with a hard "t" and the "ik" diphthong. "Acid" is pronounced with a long "a" and the "s" sound is soft. Overall, the spelling of "chondroitic acid" matches its precise phonetic sounds.
Chondroitic acid is a compound classified as a mucopolysaccharide, specifically a glycosaminoglycan (GAG). It is an essential component of the extracellular matrix of connective tissues. Chondroitic acid is composed of repeating disaccharide units that consist of N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) and glucuronic acid (GlcA). The disaccharide units are linked together through alternating β(1-4) glycosidic bonds, forming long chains.
Chondroitic acid is predominantly found in the cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and skin, where it plays a vital role in maintaining tissue structure and integrity by contributing to their viscoelastic properties. This compound is responsible for providing mechanical support, facilitating the diffusion of nutrients, and absorbing shock in load-bearing tissues.
Moreover, chondroitic acid exhibits various biological functions. It acts as a lubricant and a hydrating agent, which aids in joint mobility and the prevention of cartilage erosion in synovial joints. Additionally, chondroitic acid is involved in the regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, and inflammation processes, making it essential for tissue repair and regeneration.
Recognized for its therapeutic potential, chondroitic acid is widely used in the production of dietary supplements, topical creams, and injectable formulations targeting joint health, osteoarthritis, and skin conditions. Additionally, it serves as an important component in the preparation of tissue-engineered scaffolds and drug delivery systems due to its biocompatibility and bioactivity properties.
A substance existing in combination with a protein in chondromucoid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "chondroitic acid" is derived from the Greek word "chondros" meaning "cartilage", and the suffix "-ic" indicating it is an acid.
Chondroitic acid is a term used in biochemistry to identify a compound found in cartilage.