Open AccessCollagen‐collagen versus collagen‐proteoglycan interactions in the determination of cartilage strength
Author(s) -
Broom Neil D.,
SilynRoberts Heather
Publication year - 1990
Publication title -
arthritis & rheumatism
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1529-0131
pISSN - 0004-3591
DOI - 10.1002/art.1780331008
Subject(s) - cartilage , proteoglycan , matrix (chemical analysis) , articular cartilage , extracellular matrix , stiffness , materials science , chemistry , biomedical engineering , anatomy , composite material , osteoarthritis , pathology , medicine , biochemistry , alternative medicine
For articular cartilage to function as a stress‐reducing layer in the joint, it must both deform to an appropriate level to achieve load‐spreading as well as remain structurally coherent. Combined micromechanical and enzymatic studies of cartilage have demonstrated that the bulk of the extractable proteoglycans, while essential to the maintenance of compressive stiffness, contribute little to its cohesive strength. The study reported here clarifies fundamental aspects of the relationship between matrix components and the biomechanical function of cartilage.