Localization and macroscopic picture
In an unfixed, fresh state, elastic cartilage is easily recognized by its characteristic yellowish tint. This color of the tissue is imparted by the protein elastin, which is present in large quantities in the extracellular substance.
In the human body, elastic cartilage tissue forms structures that require high flexibility and the ability to return to their original shape after deformation. The main sites of localization include:
- The auricle and external acoustic meatus;
- Certain areas of the larynx;
- The walls of the middle bronchi.
Similarity to hyaline cartilage
Despite functional differences, elastic cartilage shares a general structural plan with hyaline cartilage. The tissue is covered externally by the perichondrium, which performs trophic and cambial functions.
The cellular composition is represented by chondrocytes — large, oval-shaped cells whose cytoplasm appears light on histological preparations. Deep within the tissue, chondrocytes form so-called isogenous groups — clusters of cells originating from a single precursor.
Features of histological structure
The main distinguishing features of elastic cartilage lie in the organization of cellular groups and the composition of the matrix:
- Architectonics of isogenous groups. Unlike hyaline cartilage, here chondrocytes are most often located in pairs, lying very close to each other. These cell clusters form characteristic "chains" oriented strictly perpendicular to the cartilage surface (the perichondrium).
- Composition of the intercellular substance. The matrix is penetrated by a dense, multidirectional network of elastic fibers. Collagen fibrils are also present in the extracellular substance, but their number is significantly lower than that of elastic fibers.
For microscopic examination of elastic cartilage, routine hematoxylin and eosin staining is insufficient. A special stain is used — orcein, which selectively stains elastic fibers a deep dark-cherry color.
Physiological properties
The most important physiological feature of elastic cartilage tissue is that it never undergoes calcification (mineralization). Deposition of calcium salts, characteristic of aging hyaline cartilage, does not occur in it.
This resistance to calcification is explained by two factors indicated in classical histology:
- Low collagen content in the extracellular substance;
- Specific features of the trophic supply (nutrition) of this tissue.
Briefly: answers to topical questions
Which specific cartilages of the larynx consist of elastic cartilage tissue?
The epiglottis, small paired cartilages, and processes consist of elastic cartilage tissue.
- Epiglottis (cartilago epiglottica) — an unpaired cartilage.
- Corniculate cartilages (cartilagines corniculatae) — paired, inconstant cartilages.
- Cuneiform cartilages (cartilagines cuneiformes) — paired small cartilages.
- Vocal processes (processus vocalis) — parts of the paired arytenoid cartilages (cartilagines arytenoideae).
What cell types are part of elastic cartilage and its perichondrium?
Elastic cartilage tissue and its perichondrium include chondrocytes and chondroblasts.
- Chondroblasts — small, flattened cells forming the cambial reserve. They are located in the inner cellular layer of the perichondrium.
- Chondrocytes — large, oval-shaped cells with light cytoplasm. In elastic cartilage, they lie closely together in pairs, forming isogenous groups deep within the tissue.
To remember the staining: "Elastic cartilage, like a CHERRY, reaches for ORCEIN" (orcein = dark cherry color of elastic fibers).
Class and exam questions
Why does elastic cartilage appear yellow in fresh samples?
The yellowish tint of the tissue is due to the high elastin content in the network of elastic fibers of the intercellular matrix.
How are isogenous groups arranged in this tissue?
Chondrocytes are located in dense pairs, forming chains aligned perpendicularly to the cartilage surface.
What stain is used to reveal elastic fibers?
Orcein is used, which stains the dense network of elastic fibers a dark cherry color.
Can elastic cartilage calcify with age?
No, unlike hyaline cartilage, elastic cartilage does not undergo calcium salt deposition due to low collagen content and nutritional features.
What else to study on this topic
- Structure and functions of the perichondrium
- Comparative characteristics of hyaline and elastic cartilages
- Mechanisms of nutrition in cartilage tissue
- Ultrastructure of elastic cartilage chondrocytes
- Histochemical properties of collagen and elastic fibers
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