Zone of maturation and hypertrophy

Definition

The zone of maturation and hypertrophy is a region in the growth plate of long bones where chondrocytes (cartilage cells) enlarge and mature. This area is crucial for bone lengthening as it prepares cartilage to be replaced by bone tissue.

Related terms

Chondrocytes:

Cells that form and maintain the cartilaginous matrix in the body.

Growth Plate: A layer of cartilage located near the ends of long bones where bone growth occurs in children and adolescents.

Ossification:

The process by which bone tissue is formed, replacing cartilage or other tissues, an essential part of bone development and healing