noun
- Cells that produce and maintain the matrix of cartilage tissue; mature cartilage cells.
Usage: technical; biology; plural form of chondrocyte
Examples
- Chondrocytes are responsible for secreting the collagen and proteoglycans that form cartilage.
- The health of chondrocytes is essential for maintaining joint function and preventing arthritis.
- Under the microscope, chondrocytes appear as rounded cells embedded in the cartilage matrix.
- Osteoarthritis occurs when chondrocytes can no longer repair damaged cartilage effectively.
- Researchers are studying how to stimulate chondrocytes to regenerate worn cartilage tissue.
- Chondrocytes receive nutrients through diffusion since cartilage lacks blood vessels.