Injured cartilage has a limited capacity to heal itself. Untreated damage leads to secondary osteoarthritis. There is a need to find a way to reconstruct cartilage in order to prevent secondary osteoarthritis. The aim this study was to evaluate and compare the chondrogenic potential of three different cell materials: perichonrdrial grafts, periosteal grafts and bone marrow in situ. The mesenchemal cells contained in these materials can differentiate in the joint environment into chondrocytes and rebuild articular cartilage.<br /> Forty nine (49) White New Zealand rabbits were used in our experiment. An osteochondrial (full-thickness) defect was created in the joint surface of both ends of the femoral bone. The animals were divided according to the procedure used:<br /> I - cartilage reconstruction by periosteal grat,<br /> II - cartilage reconstruction by perichondrial graft,<br /> III - no graft.<br /> The joint was not immobilized after surgery. Follow-up exams were performed at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. The results were evaluated macroscopically and microscopically.<br /> The results pointed to the chondrogenic potential of periosteum and perichondrium after grafting to cartilage defects. On gross examination the articular surface was found to be reconstructed. Microscopic examination revealed regeneration, with the formation of hyaline-like cartilage. Regenerating tissue was also found in the group without grafts. The structure resembled normal articular cartilage; however, neither the joint surface nor the subchondrial bone were fully reconstructed. No qualitative or quantitative differences were found between the groups treated with periosteal and perichondral grafts.<br /> Our study confirmed that grafts of periosteum or perichondrium have chondrogenic potential, i.e. the ability to generate cartilage tissue whose features are similar to those of the hyaline chondrial tissue in the joint. Both materials have similar chondrogenic potential. The chondrogenic properties of perichondrium and perisostem produce better results in the various categories in comparison to those of bone marrow.