[Advances in mechanisms of Meckel's cartilage development and degeneration].

Meckel's cartilage (MC) was first delineated in 1820 by the German anatomist Johann Friedrich Meckel the Younger through his examination of human embryos. During early development, MC functions as a supportive structure for the mandible and serves as a template for the subsequent formation of the jaw bones. Ultimately, MC transforms into either skeletal tissue, ligaments, or completely resorbs, integrating with the continuously developing osseous structures. This review elucidates the influence of MC development and degeneration on mandibular morphogenesis, delineating cellular processes and key factors that govern chondrogenic fate determination. The analysis reveals how the alterations of MC affect mandibular and craniofacial development. As a transient cartilaginous structure, investigation into MC may yield valuable insights for understanding oral and craniomaxillofacial pathologies.