Chondroblast

The chondroblast (from gr chondros " grain ", " cartilage " and blastos "seed", "sprout ") is a type of cell in the formation (→ Blast ) of cartilage ( chondrogenesis ) is enabled.

Chondroblasts are derived from mesenchymal stem cells. They produce all components of the cartilage matrix (cartilage matrix ) such as type II collagen and glycosaminoglycans (mainly chondroitin sulfate, keratan sulfate and hyaluronic acid) and transfer it to the environment. By continuing formation of this extracellular matrix, they separate from their neighboring cells and come in sealed cavities ( lacunae ) to lie. By setting the matrix synthesis and loss of ability to divide them to differentiate into chondrocytes, the actual cartilage cells.

Fibroblast growth factor -18 ( FGF -18) stimulates in model organisms for intra-articular injection in the formation of cartilage. A recombinantly produced human FGF -18 is currently in clinical trials for the treatment of osteoarthritis.