What is the Role of Fibrochondrocytes in the Extracellular Matrix?
The primary role of fibrochondrocytes is to produce and maintain the extracellular matrix, which is rich in collagen (especially type I and type II) and proteoglycans. This matrix provides structural support and helps in the distribution of mechanical loads. Fibrochondrocytes ensure that the matrix remains functional by continuously remodeling it in response to mechanical stresses.