What is the primary component of articular cartilage?

What is the primary component of articular cartilage?

• A. Type I collagen
• B. Type II collagen
• C. Elastin
• D. Fibronectin

Answer: (B)

The primary component of articular cartilage is Type II collagen. This specific type of collagen provides a framework that is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity and resilience of cartilage, particularly in load-bearing joints. Type II collagen fibers have a unique arrangement that contributes to the tensile strength and compressive resistance of the cartilage, making it essential for its function during joint movement and weight-bearing activities. The presence of Type II collagen is critical in maintaining the biomechanical properties of articular cartilage, which enable it to withstand the repetitive stresses involved in joint motion. Additionally, articular cartilage has a high water content, and the network of Type II collagen helps retain this water, facilitating the cushioning properties necessary to protect the underlying bone surfaces during physical activity. Understanding the role of Type II collagen is pivotal for clinicians working in orthopedics and rehabilitation, as it provides insights into conditions such as osteoarthritis, where the degradation of this collagen type can lead to joint pain and decreased mobility.

The primary component of articular cartilage is Type II collagen. This specific type of collagen provides a framework that is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity and resilience of cartilage, particularly in load-bearing joints. Type II collagen fibers have a unique arrangement that contributes to the tensile strength and compressive resistance of the cartilage, making it essential for its function during joint movement and weight-bearing activities.

The presence of Type II collagen is critical in maintaining the biomechanical properties of articular cartilage, which enable it to withstand the repetitive stresses involved in joint motion. Additionally, articular cartilage has a high water content, and the network of Type II collagen helps retain this water, facilitating the cushioning properties necessary to protect the underlying bone surfaces during physical activity.

Understanding the role of Type II collagen is pivotal for clinicians working in orthopedics and rehabilitation, as it provides insights into conditions such as osteoarthritis, where the degradation of this collagen type can lead to joint pain and decreased mobility.