Bone Tissue Overview

Vocabulary flashcards for concepts related

Bone

Specialized connective tissue that provides support, protects organs, stores minerals, and houses bone marrow.

Osteocytes

Mature bone cells that maintain bone matrix and communicate with other bone cells via dendritic processes in canaliculi.

Osteoblasts

Bone-forming cells that synthesize the organic components of the bone matrix.

Osteoclasts

Multinucleated giant cells responsible for bone resorption and remodeling.

Hydroxyapatite

Crystals formed from calcium and phosphate that contribute to the hardness of bone.

Periosteum

A dense layer of vascular connective tissue enveloping the bones except at the surfaces of the joints.

Endosteum

A thin vascular membrane lining the inner surface of all bones.

Osteoporosis

A condition characterized by decreased bone density and increased risk of fractures.

Bone remodeling

A lifelong process where old bone is replaced by new bone through the actions of osteoblasts and osteoclasts.

Compact bone

Dense bone that forms the outer layer of bones and provides strength.

Cancellous bone

Spongy bone that provides support and houses marrow.

Bone matrix

The extracellular matrix of bone composed of organic and inorganic components.

Calcium

A mineral stored in bones that is essential for various body functions including muscle contraction and blood clotting.

Vitamin D

A vitamin important for calcium absorption and bone health.

Spaceflight osteopenia

Bone loss experienced by astronauts due to reduced gravitational forces during spaceflight.

Osteogenic cells

Stem cells in the bone that can differentiate into osteoblasts.

Cytoplasmic processes

Extensions of osteocytes that facilitate communication and nutrient exchange.

Sharpey’s fibers

Collagen fibers that anchor periosteum to the underlying bone.

Lacunae

Small spaces within the bone matrix that house osteocytes.

Canaliculi

Tiny channels that connect lacunae and allow communication between osteocytes.

Macrophage-colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF)

A polypeptide produced by osteoblasts essential for osteoclast development.

RANKL

A ligand produced by osteoblasts that regulates osteoclast formation.