Which component is the gelatinous center of the intervertebral disc?

Which component is the gelatinous center of the intervertebral disc?

• A. Nucleus Pulposus
• B. Annulus Fibrosus
• C. Cartilaginous End Plate
• D. Intervertebral Cartilage

Answer: (A)

The gelatinous center of the intervertebral disc is the nucleus pulposus. This soft, hydrated core is rich in proteoglycans and water, giving it a gel-like consistency that allows the disc to cushion and evenly distribute loads when the spine is compressed. It sits inside the tougher outer ring called the annulus fibrosus, which is made of concentric collagen lamellae that provide strength and resist torsion. The cartilaginous end plates cap the top and bottom of the disc and help anchor it to the adjacent vertebrae while aiding nutrient diffusion; “intervertebral cartilage” isn’t a standard component. So the gelatinous center is the nucleus pulposus.

The gelatinous center of the intervertebral disc is the nucleus pulposus. This soft, hydrated core is rich in proteoglycans and water, giving it a gel-like consistency that allows the disc to cushion and evenly distribute loads when the spine is compressed. It sits inside the tougher outer ring called the annulus fibrosus, which is made of concentric collagen lamellae that provide strength and resist torsion. The cartilaginous end plates cap the top and bottom of the disc and help anchor it to the adjacent vertebrae while aiding nutrient diffusion; “intervertebral cartilage” isn’t a standard component. So the gelatinous center is the nucleus pulposus.