Physiology of articular cartilage

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS From the preceding it is evident that major strides have been made in our understandingof the role of cartilage matrix components in the various physiological processes of articular cartilage. Yet we have much to learn. Further studies with particular reference to the biological role of proteoglycan aggregates, the nature of proteoglycan-collagen interactions at various joint weight-bearing surfaces, the control of matrix turnover, and the informational functions of those molecules should provide clinicians and researchers alike with more rational modes of therapy in pathophysiological states as varied as osteoarthritis, aseptic necrosis and forms of calcium deposition diseases