Cell state · L2
CHOND.articular_collagen
2,844 cells in the full atlas (not the displayed sample).
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Marker genes
CFH, CHAD, COL9A2, COL9A3, FRZB, HMGA1, KCNMA1, P3H2, RHOC, S100A1
Annotation genes
CHAD, COL9A2, COL9A3, FRZB, P3H2
Annotation rationales
FRZB (sFRP3) marks superficial articular chondrocytes and antagonizes WNT, preserving low-proliferative, lubrication-friendly phenotype. COL9A2/3 and CHAD (chondroadherin) support the collagen IX network that stabilizes collagen II fibrils and anchors proteoglycans; P3H2 (prolyl-3-hydroxylase) fine-tunes collagen triple-helix maturation. This constellation fits matrix-forming superficial/upper intermediate zone chondrocytes.
Functional implications
Matrix-maintenance engineers of the articular surface: sustain shear-resistant collagen IX–rich fibril architecture, maintain proteoglycan–collagen interfacing, and support boundary lubrication critical for knee load distribution. By restraining WNT via FRZB, they help preserve cartilage thickness and surface smoothness, resisting fibrillation and crack propagation during gait and pivoting movements.
Marker and functional descriptions are atlas annotations. Explore gene expression, trait associations and regulatory elements in the interactive browsers; see the browser guide.