Which matrix forms the pericellular halo around chondrocytes?

Which matrix forms the pericellular halo around chondrocytes?

• A. Interterritorial Matrix
• B. Perichondrium
• C. Elastic Fibers
• D. Territorial Matrix

Answer: (D)

Chondrocytes sit in lacunae and are surrounded by a pericellular matrix, called the territorial (or lacunar) matrix. This immediate halo around each cell is rich in sulfated proteoglycans, forming a distinct boundary that stains differently from the surrounding matrix. The territorial matrix contrasts with the interterritorial matrix, which fills the space between lacunae and has a different composition, typically more collagen and less proteoglycan. The perichondrium is the outer fibrous layer enveloping the whole cartilage, not the halo around individual cells, and elastic fibers are just one component that may be present in certain cartilage types but do not define the pericellular halo.

Chondrocytes sit in lacunae and are surrounded by a pericellular matrix, called the territorial (or lacunar) matrix. This immediate halo around each cell is rich in sulfated proteoglycans, forming a distinct boundary that stains differently from the surrounding matrix. The territorial matrix contrasts with the interterritorial matrix, which fills the space between lacunae and has a different composition, typically more collagen and less proteoglycan. The perichondrium is the outer fibrous layer enveloping the whole cartilage, not the halo around individual cells, and elastic fibers are just one component that may be present in certain cartilage types but do not define the pericellular halo.