ABSTRACT
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is surrounded by a joint capsule, the smooth inner layer of which is called the synovial membrane. Synovium is involved in various intraarticular diseases, and it is a key area of joint disease. Synovial type-A cells are located in the lining layer of the synovial membrane, mostly on the side of the membrane close to the joint cavity. They have a strong phagocytic effect, and their main role is to remove the degradation products of the intra-articular and extracellular matrix. Various intra-articular diseases will affect the synovium, which is the key area of joint disease. The method of cell culture in vitro can effectively simulate the growth environment of cells in vivo and can accurately understand the effects of single and multiple factors on synovial cells, which has become a basic research method. In this review paper, the latest research progress in human temporomandibular joint type-A synoviocytes is reviewed from the aspects of cell origin, in vitro culture, cell purification, and cell biological function.