Which zone contains the chondroprogenitor cells that differentiate into chondroblasts?

Which zone contains the chondroprogenitor cells that differentiate into chondroblasts?

• A. Perichondrium
• B. Chondrogenic Zone
• C. Calcified Zone
• D. Proliferative Zone

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is where cartilage-making cells originate and begin to form cartilage. The chondrogenic zone is the region where chondroprogenitor cells are committed to becoming chondroblasts. These progenitors differentiate into chondroblasts, which then secrete cartilage matrix. As they produce matrix, the cells become embedded in it as chondrocytes. The perichondrium surrounds cartilage and has an inner layer with progenitor cells, but the specific zone dedicated to giving rise to chondroblasts is the chondrogenic zone. The other areas correspond to later steps: the proliferative zone mainly involves division of existing chondrocytes, the calcified zone involves mineralization and preparation for ossification.

The main idea here is where cartilage-making cells originate and begin to form cartilage. The chondrogenic zone is the region where chondroprogenitor cells are committed to becoming chondroblasts. These progenitors differentiate into chondroblasts, which then secrete cartilage matrix. As they produce matrix, the cells become embedded in it as chondrocytes. The perichondrium surrounds cartilage and has an inner layer with progenitor cells, but the specific zone dedicated to giving rise to chondroblasts is the chondrogenic zone. The other areas correspond to later steps: the proliferative zone mainly involves division of existing chondrocytes, the calcified zone involves mineralization and preparation for ossification.