Which structure is the cartilage matrix-producing cell?

Which structure is the cartilage matrix-producing cell?

• A. Chondrocyte
• B. Chondroblast
• C. Plasma cell
• D. Mesenchymal cell

Answer: (A)

The cell that actively secretes cartilage matrix is the chondroblast. In cartilage development and growth, mesenchymal cells differentiate into chondroblasts, which synthesize and lay down the extracellular matrix—collagen and proteoglycans—that form the cartilage framework. As they pump out matrix, these cells become surrounded by their own secretions in small cavities called lacunae and mature into chondrocytes. Chondrocytes mainly maintain the existing matrix rather than大量 secreting new matrix. Plasma cells are antibody-producing immune cells, and mesenchymal cells are progenitors that can become chondroblasts or other connective tissue cells, but they are not the cells actively producing cartilage matrix themselves.

The cell that actively secretes cartilage matrix is the chondroblast. In cartilage development and growth, mesenchymal cells differentiate into chondroblasts, which synthesize and lay down the extracellular matrix—collagen and proteoglycans—that form the cartilage framework. As they pump out matrix, these cells become surrounded by their own secretions in small cavities called lacunae and mature into chondrocytes. Chondrocytes mainly maintain the existing matrix rather than大量 secreting new matrix. Plasma cells are antibody-producing immune cells, and mesenchymal cells are progenitors that can become chondroblasts or other connective tissue cells, but they are not the cells actively producing cartilage matrix themselves.