mineral storage

Calcium (Ca²⁺)

Most important mineral stored in bone, provides muscle contraction, nerve impulse transmission, blood clotting, hormone secretion, and heart function

Phosphate (PO₄³⁻)

mineral, provides ATP production (energy), DNA and RNA structure, cell membranes, etc

Hydroxyapatite Crystals

where minerals are stored within the bone matrix, gives bone strength and hardness

Osteoblasts

Cells that build bone matrix, deposit calcium and phosphate, increase mineral storage in bone

Osteoclasts

Cells that are responsible for releasing minerals, breaks down bone matrix

Osteocytes

Cells that maintain bone tissue and help regulate mineral exchange within bone

Bone Deposition

The process of adding minerals to bones for stronger bones and more mineral reserves

Bone Reabsorption

The process of removing minerals from bone, blood mineral levels increase, bone mineral reserves decrease

Parathyroid Hormone (PTH)

Released when blood calcium levels are LOW, increases bone reabsorption to remove calcium from bone and releases it into the bloodstream

Calcitonin

Released when blood calcium levels are HIGH, promotes calcium deposition in bone so mineral storage in bone increases and blood calcium decreases

Active vitamin D

Stimulated by PTH, increases calcium reabsorption from the intestines and kidneys

Bone Mineralization

The process by which calcium and phosphate are deposited into the bone matrix, forming hydroxyapatite crystals and hardening bone.

Demineralisation

The loss of mineral content from bone, making bones weaker and more prone to fracture

Dynamic Tissue

Bone is constantly being remodelled, meaning mineral storage is not permanent but continuously adjusted according to the body's needs