Bone Structure Quiz

Central (Haversian) Canal

• Located in the center of the osteon, which is the functional unit of compact bone
• Houses blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic tissue
• Responsible for providing nutrients, oxygen, and removing waste products from bone cells
• Plays an important role in communication and signaling between bone cells

Lacunae

• Small cavities within both bone and cartilage
• House chondrocytes in cartilage and osteocytes in bone
• Crucial for the maintenance and health of these tissues
• Osteocytes within lacunae communicate with each other to regulate bone density

Osteocytes

• Mature bone cells residing in lacunae
• Responsible for maintaining bone tissue by regulating bone density and mineral content
• Communicate with other osteocytes through canaliculi

Concentric Lamellae

• Layers of mineralized matrix surrounding the central canal, forming ring-like structures
• Provide structural support and strength to bone
• Contain collagen fibers and minerals arranged in a specific way to resist stress and strain

Canaliculi

• Tiny channels connecting lacunae to each other and the central canal
• Facilitate the exchange of nutrients, waste products, and signaling molecules between osteocytes and the blood supply
• Essential for the communication and function of osteocytes

Trabeculae

• Thin, bony plates found in spongy bone, creating a lattice-like structure
• Provide structural support and distribute forces throughout the bone
• Help reduce weight and maintain bone strength