Bones are far more complex than just hard, solid structures. Inside, you'll find a fascinating array of tissues and cells contributing to their strength, function, and overall health.
Bone Composition: A Closer Look
The interior of a bone is not uniform. It's composed of several key components:
-
Connective Tissue: Bones are primarily made of connective tissue, strengthened by calcium and specialized bone cells. This provides the structural framework and rigidity. (Reference: Bones are made of connective tissue reinforced with calcium and specialised bone cells.)
-
Bone Marrow: This soft, fatty tissue resides within the center of most bones. There are two types:
- Red Bone Marrow: Produces blood cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets). (Reference: The soft, spongy tissue that has many blood vessels and is found in the center of most bones. There are two types of bone marrow: red and yellow.) (Reference: Bone marrow contains cells that produce blood cells and platelets.)
- Yellow Bone Marrow: Primarily composed of fat cells, it serves as an energy reserve. (Reference: The soft, spongy tissue that has many blood vessels and is found in the center of most bones. There are two types of bone marrow: red and yellow.)
-
Different Bone Tissues: The structure varies within the bone itself:
- Compact Bone (Cortical Bone): This is the hard, outer layer providing strength and protection. (Reference: Compact tissue. This is the harder, outer tissue of bones.)
- Cancellous Bone (Spongy Bone): Located inside the compact bone, this is a lighter, porous tissue providing support and flexibility. (Reference: Cancellous tissue. This is the sponge-like tissue inside bones.)
- Subchondral Bone: A specialized layer of bone found beneath the cartilage covering the ends of bones in joints. (Reference: Subchondral tissue…)
-
Blood Vessels and Nerves: A rich network of blood vessels and nerves permeates bone tissue, supplying nutrients and carrying signals throughout the bone. (Reference: We established a novel bone tissue clearing technique (Osteo-DISCO) for murine bones which enabled us to visualize the detailed distribution of nerves or blood…)
Beyond the Basics: Further Insights
The composition of bone marrow and the proportion of red and yellow marrow can change throughout life and based on individual factors. Bones also store essential minerals, like calcium, contributing to overall body homeostasis. The intricate interplay of these components is crucial for bone health and function. (Reference: Bones store most of our body's calcium…) (Reference: Bones are made up of a framework of a protein called collagen, with a mineral called calcium phosphate that makes the framework hard and strong.)
