Cartilage

• Cartilage has immature cells (chondroblasts; divide by mitosis, and secrete extracellular matrix, which once synthesised matures them) and mature cells (chondrocytes; less active, maintain the matrix), make 3 types: Hyaline, Fibrous and Elastic
• Hyaline cartilage: Forms the embryonic skeleton, covers ends of long bones in adults, joins ribs to sternum and is found in the nose, trachea (C-Shaped rings), and larynx (voice box)
• Fibrous cartilage: Occurs in disks between vertebrae in the backbone (spine) and in the knee joint
• Elastic cartilage: Makes up the outer ear (pinna) and the epiglottis (flap that closes over the larynx when you swallow)