Axisymmetric finite element depiction of a chondrocyte, with distinct nuclear and cytoplasmic regions, undergoing unconfined compression. In its undeformed state (A), the cell is considered to be 10 μm tall and 12 μm wide, with a spherical nuclear inclusion of radius 2.5 μm. The lateral and axial deformations of both the cytoplasm and nucleus were measured in response a 25 nN load applied onto the cell (B). The linear elastic mechanical properties of the cytoplasm and nucleus were varied parametrically, and a cost function (δRMS) value was calculated for each case in comparison to known experimental data (Leipzig and Athanasiou, 2008). (ax = axial; lat = lateral)