Final answer:
The claim that cartilage is found in the most hypoxic areas of the body because oxygen is toxic to chondrocytes is false. Cartilage is avascular and chondrocytes are adapted to low oxygen levels, with hyaline cartilage playing a crucial role in joints.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that cartilage is found in the most hypoxic regions of the body because O2 is toxic/lethal to chondrocytes is false. Cartilage is avascular, meaning it does not contain blood vessels, and therefore has a lower oxygen supply. Chondrocytes, which are the cells found in cartilage, reside in spaces called lacunae. Oxygen is not toxic to them; rather, they are adapted to an environment with reduced oxygen supply.
The avascular nature of cartilage means that all nutrients, including oxygen, must diffuse through the matrix to reach the chondrocytes, which results in slower healing. Additionally, hyaline cartilage is found at the ends of long bones where it reduces friction and cushions the bones, indicating its vital role in proper joint function.