Metabolic consideration of epiphyseal growth: Survival responses in a taxing environment

The goal of this review is to examine some of the metabolic features of the maturing chondrocyte within the epiphyseal growth plate. The energy status of the tissue is examined in light of the energy needs of the tissue and the availability of oxygen. The role of HIF, PHDs and other proteins concerned with transduction of the oxemic response is considered and related to chondrocyte survival in a complex extracellular matrix.