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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the blood supply to mature cartilage?
A
It receives blood supply only during growth.
B
It has an extensive network of blood vessels.
C
It is avascular and lacks a direct blood supply.
D
It is highly vascularized in adults.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure and function of cartilage: Cartilage is a type of connective tissue that provides support and flexibility to various parts of the body, such as joints, the nose, and the ear. It is composed of chondrocytes embedded in a matrix of collagen and proteoglycans.
Learn about the term 'avascular': Avascular means lacking blood vessels. This is a key characteristic of mature cartilage, which distinguishes it from other tissues that have direct blood supply.
Recognize how cartilage receives nutrients: Since mature cartilage is avascular, it relies on diffusion for nutrient and waste exchange. Nutrients diffuse through the surrounding perichondrium (a dense layer of connective tissue) and the extracellular matrix to reach the chondrocytes.
Compare the options provided: Evaluate each statement based on the characteristics of mature cartilage. For example, 'It is avascular and lacks a direct blood supply' aligns with the known properties of cartilage, while statements like 'It has an extensive network of blood vessels' or 'It is highly vascularized in adults' contradict the avascular nature of cartilage.
Conclude that the correct answer is based on the avascular nature of mature cartilage: Mature cartilage does not have a direct blood supply, and this is a defining feature of its structure and function.