Formation of synovial joints and articular cartilage

Chondrocytes differentiate from mesenchymal progenitors and produce templates (anlagen) for the developing bones. Chondrocyte differentiation is controlled by Sox transcription factors. Templates for the neighbour bones are subsequently separated by conversion of differentiated chondrocytes into non-chondrogenic cells and emergence of interzone in which joints cavitation occurs. A central role in initiating synovial joint formation plays Wnt-14/beta-catenin signalling pathway. Moreover, bone morphogenetic proteins and growth and differentiation factors are expressed at the site of joint formation. Joint cavitation is associated with increased hyaluronic acid synthesis. Hyaluronic acid facilitates tissue separation and creation of a functional joint cavity. According to the traditional view articular cartilage represents part of cartilage anlage that is not replaced by bone through endochondral ossification. Recent studies indicate, however, that peri-joint mesenchymal cells take part in interzone formation and that these interzone cells subsequently differentiate into articular chondrocytes and synovial cells. Thus, anlage chondrocytes have a transient character and disappear after cessation of growth plate function while articular chondrocytes have stable and permanent phenotype and function throughout life. (Folia Morphol 2013; 72, 3: 181–187)