This detailed book collects a variety of methods from investigators at the forefront of chondrocyte biology and pathology research that they have tailored for their research projects in order to tackle the unique properties and challenges of the chondrocyte and those of its tissue matrix. Divided into three parts, the volume explores experimental models to study chondrocytes, in vivo assays, as well as methods to characterize the chondrocyte phenotype with high-throughput or discrete assays on cells maintained in vivo, just isolated from their tissue (ex vivo), or cultured in vitro. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls.