MICROANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -Hyaline cartilage has abundant collagen fibers hidden by a rubbery matrix with a glassy (hyalin = glass), blue-white appearance. Functions: forms the supporting structures of the larynx (voice box), attaches ribs to the breastbone, covers the ends of many bones where they form joints.

Detailed explanation-2: -Hyaline cartilage has a pearly bluish-white tinge and under a low-power microscope the matrix appears amorphous and translucent (semitransparent) as in Figure 11.

Detailed explanation-3: -Several collagen subtypes have been identified in hyaline articular cartilage. The main and most abundant collagens are type II, IX and XI collagens.

Detailed explanation-4: -Hyaline cartilage has just a few collagen fibers embedded in its matrix. It is generally quite smooth, and has a bluish-white, glass-like appearance grossly. It is found in places like the rings that hold the trachea open and covering the articular (joint) surfaces of bones.