Skeletal

Osteons

The basic structural units of bone, cylindrical and weight-bearing structures that run parallel to the bone’s axis.

Osteocytes

Mature bone cells housed in tiny spaces called lacunae, responsible for monitoring and maintaining the bone matrix.

Osteoblasts

Bone-building cells that secrete collagen and help form new bone material.

Osteoclasts

Bone-breaking cells that dissolve bone tissue and are involved in the resorption process.

Hematopoiesis

The production of blood cells, primarily occurring in the bone marrow.

Bone Remodeling

The process by which old bone tissue is removed and new bone tissue is formed, involving osteocytes, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts.

Trabeculae

Tiny cross-hatching supports found in spongy bone that help resist stress.

Apoptosis

The process of programmed cell death, which osteoclasts undergo after completing their job.

Calcium Phosphate

A mineral that crystallizes in the bone matrix, providing structural strength.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of stable internal conditions in the body, including blood calcium levels.

Spongy Bone

A porous type of bone tissue found inside bones, characterized by a honeycomb structure.

Compact Bone

A dense, smooth-looking external layer of bone that surrounds spongy bone.

Bone Marrow

Tissue found within bones that produces blood cells; can be red (produces blood cells) or yellow (stores fat).

Epiphyses

The flared ends of long bones that contain spongy bone and red marrow.

Diaphysis

The shaft or central part of a long bone, containing a medullary cavity.

Calcium

A mineral essential for various bodily functions, including bone strength and muscle contraction.

Phosphate

A mineral that, along with calcium, contributes to the structure and function of bones.

Homeostasis and glucose intolerance

The balance required by the body to properly regulate blood sugar levels, influenced by the hormone osteocalcin.