Endochondral ossification

Definition

Endochondral ossification is the process by which bone tissue forms from cartilage, replacing it with hard bone over time. It is crucial for the development and growth of most bones in the body, including long bones like the femur.

Related terms

Chondrocytes:

These are cells found in cartilage that play an essential role in endochondral ossification by providing a framework that will be replaced by bone.

Osteoblasts:

These are bone-forming cells that synthesize and secrete the bone matrix during endochondral ossification.

Epiphyseal Plate:

Also known as the growth plate, it is a layer of hyaline cartilage where endochondral ossification occurs for the longitudinal growth of bones