Anatomy & Morphology

Cartilage

연골

Definition

A flexible connective tissue found in joints, the ear, and nose that is softer than bone.

Detailed Explanation

Cartilage lacks blood vessels, making it slow to heal after injury — a significant clinical challenge. It acts as a shock absorber in joints and gives shape to the external ear and nose. In embryos, the entire skeleton is first laid down as cartilage, which is gradually replaced by bone in a process called ossification. Sharks and rays retain a fully cartilaginous skeleton throughout life.

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