Cartilage

Cartilage is a resilient and flexible connective tissue found in various parts of the body. Its extracellular matrix is rich in collagen fibers and proteoglycans, providing tensile strength and compression resistance. Major types include hyaline cartilage (joint surfaces, ribs, respiratory tract), elastic cartilage (ear, epiglottis), and fibrocartilage (intervertebral discs, menisci). It is avascular and aneural, receiving nutrients by diffusion.