Extracellular Matrix and Bone Morphogenetic Proteins in Cartilage and Bone Development and Repair

Abstract

The development and differentiation of bone occurs by one of two processes. First, there is a direct development of bone from mesenchyme as in the bones of the skull and facial skeleton. This process is referred to as intramembranous bone formation. Second, a transient cartilage model precedes differentiation of bone and occurs in a majority of bones. This process is known as endochondral ossification. It is noteworthy that these two methods of ossification signify only the environment of bone formation, and there appears to be no distinct differences in the bone formed. Angiogenesis and vascular invasion are prerequisites for both intramembranous and endochondral ossification. However, the underlying mechanistic interactions between vascular invasion and osteogenesis are not clear. This chapter describes recent progress in the interface of extracellular matrix components and growth and differentiation factors with special reference to bone and cartilage development and repair.