Which is NOT a major component of connective tissue repair?

The process of connective tissue repair primarily involves inflammation, scar remodeling, and new vessel formation. Each of these components plays a crucial role in the healing process, often referred to as the stages of tissue repair.

Inflammation is the initial response that occurs after injury, facilitating the body's defense mechanisms and clearing away damaged cells and debris. It is essential for setting the stage for subsequent repair processes.

Scar remodeling is a later phase where the initial granulation tissue is restructured and strengthened over time. This phase can last for months or even years, leading to a more functional scar tissue that may not entirely restore the original tissue structure but helps stabilize the area.

New vessel formation, also known as angiogenesis, is critical for providing adequate blood supply and nutrients to the healing tissue. This ensures that the cells involved in repair receive the necessary resources to regenerate effectively.

In contrast, while cartilage synthesis plays a role in the healing of cartilage injuries, it is not considered a major component in the overall process of connective tissue repair. This is because cartilage has limited healing capacity due to its avascular nature and the complexity of its extracellular matrix. The primary healing processes typically emphasize the mechanisms that apply to soft tissue repair rather than the specific requirements for regenerating cartilage.