Introduction to Cartilage

The International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) is dedicated to the promotion, encouragement, and distribution of fundamental and applied research on cartilage in order to foster a better understanding of damaged and abnormal cartilage and its regeneration and repair. As part of the effort to achieve this goal, the ICRS has elected to publish a new journal entitled Cartilage The objective of Cartilage is to publish articles related to the musculoskeletal system with particular attention to cartilage repair, growth of cartilage, cartilage function, and cartilage transplantation, including rehabilitation. The journal is to serve as a focal point and a forum for the exchange of ideas for the many kinds of researchers and practitioners related to articular cartilage and the intervertebral disc. Hence, a primary objective is to foster the cross-fertilization of the findings from clinical and basic sciences of the various disciplines involved. The journal will publish original full-length manuscripts; we encourage the submission of manuscripts on clinical, laboratory, and therapeutic research. Review articles, editorials, and letters will also be considered. Supplements will be published on new and innovative programs, procedures, and therapies. The ICRS envisages that Cartilage will reflect scientific research and exchange of knowledge among physicians, scientists, patients, and researchers. The Associate Editors reflect the international nature of