Hyaline cartilage: Definition

Hyaline cartilage definition, structure, histology, types, function, biological importance, and examples on Biology Online, the world’s most comprehensive dictionary of biology terms and topics. Hyaline cartilage, type of connective tissue, glossy pearl-gray or blue-white in appearance and resilient, found on surfaces of joints and in the cartilage making up the fetal skeleton. Cartilage has many functions, including the ability to resist compressive forces, enhance bone resilience, and provide support in bony areas where flexibility is needed (see Image. Cartilage and Bone Illustration). The primary cell that makes cartilage is the chondrocyte, which resides within the lacunae. The cartilage matrix consists of fibrous tissue and various combinations of proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans. Cartilage, once synthesized, lacks lymphatic or blood supply, and the ... Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue that is stiffer than most other connective tissue types but flexible enough to withstand compressive forces.