Proton spin–spin relaxation study of molecular dynamics and proteoglycan hydration in articular cartilage

Spin–spin relaxation of proton magnetization in natural and deuterated articular cartilage is reported over a range of hydration. Information about macromolecular dynamics is deduced and a hydration stabilized macromolecular regime identified. There is good correspondence between NMR results and cartilage stoichiometry. A new measure for hydration of proteoglycans is found.