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Current Osteoporosis Reports

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Open Access 14-10-2023

The Origin and Fate of Chondrocytes: Cell Plasticity in Physiological Setting

Authors: Andrei S. Chagin, Tsz Long Chu

Published in: Current Osteoporosis Reports | Issue 6/2023

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Here, we discuss the origin of chondrocytes, their destiny, and their plasticity in relationship to bone growth, articulation, and formation of the trabeculae. We also consider these processes from a biological, clinical, and evolutionary perspective.

Recent Findings

Chondrocytes, which provide the template for the formation of most bones, are responsible for skeletal growth and articulation during postnatal life. In recent years our understanding of the fate of these cells has changed dramatically. Current evidence indicates a paradoxical situation during skeletogenesis, with some cells of mesenchymal condensation differentiating directly into osteoblasts, whereas others of the same kind give rise to highly similar osteoblasts via a complex process of differentiation involving several chondrocyte intermediates. The situation becomes even more paradoxical during postnatal growth when stem cells in the growth plate produce differentiated, functional progenies, which thereafter presumably dedifferentiate into another type of stem cell.

Summary

Such a remarkable transition from one cell type to another under postnatal physiological conditions provides a fascinating example of cellular plasticity that may have valuable clinical implications.

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Title: The Origin and Fate of Chondrocytes: Cell Plasticity in Physiological Setting
Authors: Andrei S. Chagin
Tsz Long Chu
Publication date: 14-10-2023
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Current Osteoporosis Reports / Issue 6/2023
Print ISSN: 1544-1873
Electronic ISSN: 1544-2241
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11914-023-00827-1

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

The Origin and Fate of Chondrocytes: Cell Plasticity in Physiological Setting

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary

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