The epiphyseal plate, or growth plate, is a layer of hyaline cartilage found between the diaphysis and epiphysis of long bones. It is responsible for the lengthwise growth of bones during childhood and adolescence. The epiphyseal plate consists of four distinct zones:
Zone of Resting Cartilage: This zone anchors the epiphyseal plate to the bone. Zone of Proliferating Cartilage: Chondrocytes in this zone divide and form columns, contributing to the lengthening of the bone. Zone of Hypertrophic Cartilage: Chondrocytes in this zone enlarge and mature. Zone of Calcified Cartilage: Chondrocytes die, and the matrix becomes calcified, providing a scaffold for new bone formation by osteoblasts.
