Elastic cartilage

Definition

Elastic cartilage is a flexible connective tissue found in various structures of the body, providing support and maintaining shape while allowing for flexibility. This type of cartilage contains a dense network of elastic fibers, which distinguishes it from other cartilage types, such as hyaline and fibrocartilage, allowing it to withstand repeated bending and stretching without losing its integrity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Elastic cartilage is primarily located in structures such as the external ear (auricle), epiglottis, and parts of the larynx, providing shape and support.
2. Unlike hyaline cartilage, which has a smooth appearance due to a lack of fibers, elastic cartilage contains abundant elastic fibers that make it more flexible.
3. Elastic cartilage plays a crucial role in maintaining the shape of certain structures while allowing them to withstand deformation due to environmental stresses.
4. This type of cartilage is more resilient than hyaline cartilage, which makes it better suited for areas that require both support and elasticity.
5. Elastic cartilage can be identified histologically by its unique dark-staining elastic fibers within the extracellular matrix.

Review Questions

• Compare and contrast elastic cartilage with hyaline cartilage in terms of structure and function.
  • Elastic cartilage contains a dense network of elastic fibers that provide greater flexibility compared to hyaline cartilage, which has a smooth, glassy appearance due to its lack of fibers. While both types of cartilage provide support, elastic cartilage is specifically designed to maintain the shape of structures like the external ear while allowing them to bend without damage. In contrast, hyaline cartilage is more rigid and primarily serves as a cushion between bones at joints.
• Discuss the importance of elastic fibers in the composition of elastic cartilage and their impact on its functional properties.
  • Elastic fibers are crucial in the composition of elastic cartilage as they allow this tissue to be both flexible and resilient. The presence of these fibers enables elastic cartilage to return to its original shape after being deformed, which is essential in structures like the epiglottis that must open and close during swallowing. Without elastic fibers, this type of cartilage would not be able to provide the necessary support while accommodating dynamic movements.
• Evaluate the role of chondrocytes in maintaining the health and function of elastic cartilage throughout an individual's life.
  • Chondrocytes play a vital role in maintaining the health and function of elastic cartilage by producing and maintaining the extracellular matrix, which includes both collagen and elastic fibers. As individuals age or experience injury, chondrocyte activity may decrease, leading to deterioration in cartilage quality and function. This decline can result in decreased flexibility and increased susceptibility to damage within structures supported by elastic cartilage, ultimately affecting overall mobility and function.

Related terms

Hyaline Cartilage:

A type of cartilage that provides support and flexibility, found in areas like the nose, trachea, and at the ends of long bones.

Fibrocartilage: A tough and dense type of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber in joints, found in intervertebral discs and the pubic symphysis.

Chondrocytes:

The cells responsible for the maintenance and production of cartilage matrix, including collagen and elastic fibers.