Bone Structure and Function

A specialized connective tissue whose extracellular matrix is calcified.

The outer layer of bone, composed of an outer fibrous layer and an inner cellular layer containing osteoprogenitor cells.

Strong collagen fibers that anchor the periosteum to the bone.

The inner lining of the bone, composed of osteoprogenitor cells and osteoblasts.

Bone's solid structural foundation, composed of organic and inorganic matter.

Proteins like collagen and proteoglycans that provide flexibility and strength to the bone.

Minerals like calcium phosphate, providing hardness and rigidity.

Small cavities within the bone matrix that house osteocytes.

Cells responsible for creating new bone tissue.

Mature bone cells responsible for maintaining bone tissue.

Osteogenic cells are stem cells in bone tissue that can differentiate into osteoblasts. They're found in the periosteum and endosteum, the layers surrounding bone.

Osteoblasts are responsible for synthesizing the organic matrix of bone, including collagen fibers and ground substance. They are active cells with a rich cytoplasm and a basophilic staining pattern.

Osteocytes are mature bone cells that maintain the bone matrix. They reside in lacunae (small cavities) within the matrix and have cytoplasmic processes that extend through canaliculi, connecting them to other osteocytes.

Osteoclasts are responsible for bone resorption, the breakdown of bone tissue. They are large, multinucleated cells with a ruffled border that helps them dissolve the mineralized matrix.

Lacunae are small cavities within bone tissue where osteocytes reside. They are interconnected by canaliculi, channels that allow for communication and nutrient transport.

Canaliculi are microscopic canals within bone tissue that connect lacunae, allowing for the exchange of nutrients, waste products, and communication between osteocytes.

The ruffled border is a characteristic feature of osteoclasts. It's a highly folded and irregular surface facing the bone, increasing the surface area for bone resorption.

Howship's lacunae are pits on the surface of bone where osteoclasts reside. These pits are formed by the resorptive action of osteoclasts, and they play a role in bone remodeling.

Bone resorption is the process of breaking down bone tissue by osteoclasts. It's a crucial part of bone remodeling, allowing old or damaged bone to be replaced with new bone.

Bone remodeling is the continuous process of bone formation and resorption, which helps to maintain bone strength and adapt to changing needs. It involves the coordinated activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts.