Difference between Bone and Cartilage

Features

Bone

Cartilage

Type

Hardest connective tissue

Harder than dense regular CT but softer than bone

Study

Osteology

Chondrology

Composition

Collagen fibres only

Collagen fibres and elastic fibres

Blood Supply

Highly vascularized

Avascular except for the outermost layer (Perichondrium)

Matrix

Solid, hard, and non-pliable

Solid, soft, and pliable (compressible)

Arrangement of Matrix Matrix is arranged in the form of concentric layers known as Lamellae. Matrix is Homogenous
Lacunae Lacunae have canaliculi and one osteocyte is present in a lacuna Lacunae do not have canaliculi and up to 8 chondrocytes can be present in a lacuna

Regeneration/ Healing Capacity

The abundant blood supply for nourishment and healing

Limited regenerative capacity

Sensation Sensation present due to the presence of nerves Sensation absent due to the absence of nerves

Cells

Osteoblasts, Osteocytes, Osteoclasts

Chondroblasts, Chondrocytes, Chondroclasts

Location of Osteoblasts and Chondroblats Osteoblasts are present on the inner and outer periphery. Chondoblasts are present on the outer periphery.

Matrix Components

Organic: Ossein protein, Chondroitin-4-Sulphate, Hyaluronic acid

Inorganic: Calcium salts (Calcium carbonate, Calcium phosphate, etc.)

Organic: Chondrin protein, Chondroitin-6-Sulphate, Hyaluronic acid

Inorganic: Rare deposition of minerals

Function

The skeletal framework of the body, provide structural support, protect organs, serve as muscle attachment points, and enables locomotion and movement.

Act as a shock absorber, reducing friction in joints.

Difference Between Bone And Cartilage

Difference Between Bone And Cartilage: Bone and Cartilage are two types of Skeletal connective tissues found in the human body. They both play crucial roles in supporting the body and protecting organs, flexibility, locomotion and movement. They both form the endoskeleton of the human body. There are several key differences between bone and cartilage in terms of structure, composition, and function. This article covers the key distinctions between these two in detail.

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Difference between Bone and Cartilage

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What is Bone?

The study of bones is known as Osteology. Bone is the hardest connective tissue that forms the skeletal system of the body. Bones contain collagen fibres only which provides strength and hardness to bones. Bones are highly vascularized, which means they have an abundant blood supply for nourishment and healing. Blood is supplied into the interior of bone through Haversian (longitudinal) and Volksmann’s (Transverse) canals. Haversian and Volksmann’s canals are characteristic features of mammals. The Haversian canal contains an artery, vein, lymph vessel and nerve bundle. The presence of nerves in bones is responsible for sensation in bones. Its matrix is solid, hard and non-pliable. Bones provide structural support, protect vital organs, and serve as attachment points for muscles. Bone tissue has the ability to regenerate and repair to some extent, which allows healing of fractures....

What is Cartilage?

The study of cartilage is known as Chondrology. Cartilage is harder than dense regular connective tissue but softer than bone. It is composed of both collagen fibres and elastic fibres which provide elasticity and cushioning properties to cartilage. Cartilage is avascular except the outermost layer called the Perichondrium is vascular. The Perichondrium is made up of dense irregular white fibrous connective tissue. Its matrix is solid, soft and pliable (compressible)....

FAQs on Bones and Cartilage

Q: What are the main types of skeletal connective tissues found in the human body?...