Cartilage

Description

Cartilage is a dense, semi-opaque gray or white Connective Tissue produced by a matrix of cells called Chondroblasts.  Unlike other types of Connective Tissue, Cartilage has no Blood Vessels or Nerves.

Musculoskeletal System

 At the ends of Bones, Cartilage forms tough, smooth, fibrous pads that help to reduce the friction between the Bones and act as shock absorbers for the Bones.

 Cartilage is a component of the flexible part of the external portion of the Ear.

 The majority of the body's Cartilage is located in Joints - it provides a smooth surface, thereby facilitating the movement of Joints and acting like an endogenous "shock-absorber".

 Cartilage is a major component of the Intervertebral Disks that protect the Backbone.

Amino Acids

 S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) may stimulate the production of Cartilage.  ^[1]

Alkaloids

 Capsaicin (0.025% cream applied topically) may inhibit the destruction of Cartilage that is caused by Substance P. 

Amino Acids

 Proline (and its product - Hydroxyproline) is an essential component of Cartilage (via its incorporation into Collagen).

Carbohydrates

 Chondroitin Sulfate (CSA) is the principal component of Cartilage (it comprises 92% of the Proteoglycans content of normal Cartilage) and may help to maintain the resilience of Cartilage.  It may also help to rebuild damaged Cartilage.  ^[2]

 Glucosamine (in the form of Glucosamine Sulfate) is the main constituent of Chondroitin Sulfate (CSA) which in turn is the primary non-Water component of Cartilage (Glucosamine Sulfate can also be obtained via exogenous supplementation).  Supplemental Glucosamine (Sulfate) can repair damaged Cartilage:  ^[3]

 Exogenous, supplemental Glucosamine may "instruct" Chondroclasts to cease destroying Cartilage (while at the same time reactivating Chondroblasts to recommence "building" new Cartilage).