Physiological extracellular matrix (ECM) calcification or mineralization is restricted to bones, teeth and the hypertrophic zone of growth plate cartilage. In contrast, pathological ECM ...

Most cartilage relies on an external extracellular matrix for strength, but "lipocartilage," which is found in the ears, nose and throat of mammals, is uniquely packed with fat-filled cells called ...

“This will expand our understanding of skeletal biomechanics. Right now, people only think about the matrix,” Plikus said. “But in lipo-cartilage, biomechanics derive from the organelles inside of the ...

One recent study in mice uncovered that menopause led to a drop in 17beta-estradiol and progesterone, which increased cartilage aging, degeneration, and disassembly of the extracellular matrix.

In severe cases, cartilage wears so thin that joints ... Once inside the body, these nanofibers mimic the extracellular ...

We first address the etiopathophysiology of OA and the mechanisms responsible for breakdown of the cartilage extracellular matrix. We then discuss the potential of MSCs for articular cartilage ...