Mechanobiology of Hypertrophic Chondrocyte Mineralization: Biomechanical Regulation and Therapeutic Implications in Skeletal Disorders

Chondrocyte proliferation, differentiation and hypertrophic mineralization are central events that guide subsequent vascular invasion and bone replacement processes. This process is controlled by a sophisticated molecular network including transcription factors such as SOX9 and Runx2, as well as key signaling pathways such as Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP), Indian Hedgehog (Ihh) and Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF). Dysregulation of this network due to genetic mutations or metabolic deficiencies can disrupt mineralization, which underpins aberrant skeletal biomechanics properties. Therefore, understanding the physiological and pathological mechanisms governing chondrocyte proliferation, differentiation and mineralization holds significant potential for developing novel therapeutic strategies for disorders with compromised skeletal biomechanics.