Which tissue type is exemplified by the fibrocartilage found at the pubic symphysis?

Which tissue type is exemplified by the fibrocartilage found at the pubic symphysis?

• A. Fibroblast
• B. Adipose tissue
• C. Fibrocartilage
• D. Hyaline cartilage

Answer: (C)

The key idea is understanding how tissue structure fits function in joints. The pubic symphysis uses a fibrocartilaginous pad that must withstand both compression and tearing forces as the pelvis moves and bears weight. Fibrocartilage is a specialized tissue that blends cartilage with dense collagen fibers, giving it great toughness and resistance to shear. It has chondrocytes in lacunae within a matrix rich in type I collagen fibers, which makes it much tougher than hyaline cartilage. This toughness plus its ability to cushion and stabilize the joint is why fibrocartilage is the correct tissue type for the pubic symphysis. In contrast, adipose tissue is mainly fat storage, and fibroblasts are cells that produce ECM rather than a tissue type themselves, while hyaline cartilage is a smoother, more uniform cartilage that lacks the dense fibrous component.

The key idea is understanding how tissue structure fits function in joints. The pubic symphysis uses a fibrocartilaginous pad that must withstand both compression and tearing forces as the pelvis moves and bears weight. Fibrocartilage is a specialized tissue that blends cartilage with dense collagen fibers, giving it great toughness and resistance to shear. It has chondrocytes in lacunae within a matrix rich in type I collagen fibers, which makes it much tougher than hyaline cartilage. This toughness plus its ability to cushion and stabilize the joint is why fibrocartilage is the correct tissue type for the pubic symphysis. In contrast, adipose tissue is mainly fat storage, and fibroblasts are cells that produce ECM rather than a tissue type themselves, while hyaline cartilage is a smoother, more uniform cartilage that lacks the dense fibrous component.