bone cells, growth and develop

Osteogenic Cells

Stem cells found in the periosteum and endosteum that divide to produce osteoblast, origin of bone cells

Osteoblasts

Bone-forming cells that produce bone matrix and promote mineral deposition, secretes collagen fibres, produces osteoid, deposits calcium and phosphate, and forms new bone.

Osteocytes

Mature bone cells that maintain bone tissue, monitors mineral content and communicates with other bone cells

Osteoclasts

Large bone-resorbing cells that break down bone matrix, part of bone resorption, releases calcium and phosphate

Ossification

The process of bone formation, has 2 major types

Intramembranous Ossification

Bone develops directly from embryonic connective tissue

Endochondral Ossification

Bone develops by replacing a hyaline cartilage model

Primary Ossification Center

First area where bone formation begins, usually in the diaphysis

Secondary Ossification Centers

Areas of bone formation in the epiphyses

Epiphyseal Plate (Growth Plate)

A layer of hyaline cartilage responsible for increasing bone length

Epiphyseal Closure

The process in which the growth plate becomes completely ossified

Epiphyseal Line

The remnant of the growth plate in adults

Appositional Growth

Increase in bone diameter or thickness

Bone Remodelling

Continuous process of bone resorption and bone deposition, repairs damage, maintains strength and mineral homeostasis

Growth Hormone (GH)

Stimulates growth of cartilage and bone during childhood and adolescence

Thyroid Hormones

Promote normal skeletal growth and development

Estrogen

Stimulates growth plate activity and eventually causes growth plate closure

Testosterone

Promotes bone growth and increased bone mass, contributes to adolescent growth spurt

Fracture Repair

The process of restoring damaged bone tissue