Structure, Mechanics, and Mechanobiology of Fibrocartilage Pericellular Matrix Mediated by Type V Collagen (Adv. Sci. 32/2025)

Fibrocartilage Pericellular Matrix Fibrocartilage sustains complex multiscale mechanical loads, including tensile, compressive, and shear forces, in vivo. The cover art highlights a structurally distinct microdomain surrounding individual cells, termed the “pericellular matrix” (PCM), in murine meniscus fibrocartilage. Immunostaining visualizes the PCM (perlecan in green) enveloping the cell membranes (red) and nuclei (DAPI, blue). In article number 2414750, Chao Wang, Mingyue Fan, Lin Han, and colleagues demonstrate the unique composition, nanostructure, and micromechanical features of the PCM, and identify a crucial role for type V collagen in governing the assembly, mechanics, and mechanobiological functions of the PCM. These findings establish a new foundation for therapeutic strategies targeting the PCM or its molecular components in fibrocartilage-related diseases.