New Cartilage Type Found: Lipocartilage Resembles Fat, Boosts Elasticity

A newly recognized type of cartilage, distinct from the three generally recognised sorts, has been described by scientists. This tissue, termed “lipocartilage,” stands out attributable to its distinctive composition. Unlike typical cartilage, which options thick fibre matrices, lipocartilage incorporates balloon-like cells stuffed with oils. These cells are uniform and intently packed, forming a springy but sturdy construction. Found in areas such because the ear and nostril, this tissue combines elasticity with resistance to deformation, based on studies.

Study Highlights the Characteristics of Lipocartilage

As per findings published in Science, lipocartilage was first noticed throughout an evaluation of mouse ear tissue. This tissue, resembling fats however with a definite fibrous matrix, was proven to take care of its dimension no matter calorie consumption. Unlike adipose cells, lipocartilage lacks enzymes for fats breakdown and transporters for dietary fat, guaranteeing its structural stability. Maksim Plikus, Professor on the University of California, Irvine, in contrast it to “Bubble Wrap” in an e-mail to Live Science, noting its position in enhancing the acoustic properties of the outer ear by sustaining constant sound wave transmission.

Historical Observations Rediscovered

The tissue was first documented within the 1850s by Franz von Leydig, who described it as cartilage resembling adipose tissue. Subsequent mentions within the Sixties and Seventies pale into obscurity till its current rediscovery. The research highlights lipocartilage’s distinct genetic and molecular traits, supporting its classification as a possible fourth kind of cartilage. Some specialists, together with Shouan Zhu from Ohio University, have expressed reservations, suggesting it’d signify a subtype of elastic cartilage.

Wider Implications and Future Research

Lipocartilage was recognized in human fetal tissues and several other mammals however not in nonmammals. Researchers intention to discover its evolutionary origins, regenerative capabilities, and the way it manages excessive fats content material with out toxicity. As reported by Live Science, based on Viviana Hermosilla Aguayo and Dr. Licia Selleri from the University of California, San Francisco, this discovery might necessitate updates to anatomy and histology texts.