22. Cartilage Cells: Minimal Renewal
Cartilage cells, or chondrocytes, exhibit very slow renewal rates. Unlike many other tissues, cartilage lacks a direct blood supply, which severely limits its ability to heal after injury.
This minimal regenerative capability is why joint injuries often linger and why conditions like arthritis can become chronic and progressively worsen. Research continues to seek ways to enhance cartilage repair. For further reading, see NIAMS: Cartilage Repair.