Interaction Between Cartilage Metabolism and Inflammation

Abstract

In contrast to traditional conceptions, articular cartilage is by no means a “boring,” bradytrophic tissue which certainly resists mechanical stress for a long time, but which otherwise becomes worn and merely degenerates like the sole of a foot during lifetime. The cartilage matrix components, rather, are subject to constant active anabolism and catabolism, whose balance is ultimately decisive for the quality and resistance of the articular cartilage. The components of hyaline cartilage, collagen type II and proteoglycans, are chondrocytic products. The chondrocyte is the only living element of the cartilage. On the other hand, the chondrocyte also produces enzymes which can degrade proteoglycan molecules. This might already be the key to understanding the antagonistic mechanisms of the cartilage matrix!