Joint cartilage

Abstract

Joint cartilage is a highly specialized tissue that allows movement. Degeneration and injury impairs its functions. Chondrocytes and extracellular matrix determines utility. Thinning and loss of macromolecular structure of joint cartilage leads to degeneration. Changing load distribution aids recovering homeostasis to some extend. Disease modifying molecules help maintaining structure and function, however signaling molecules are still researched. This chapter also informs on mechanical and molecular determinants of joint cartilage, degeneration, and primary and posttraumatic osteoarthritis.