The authors review the structure and composition of articular cartilage. This tissue is
composed of an extensive extracellular matrix synthesized by chondrocytes. It contains
different zones with respect to depth from the articular surface and has a regional
organization around the chondrocytes. Its composition varies regionally and zonally in its
collagen and proteoglycan contents and those of other matrix molecules. There is a
macrofibrillar collagen network and a microfilamentous network about which other …