The bone marrow is the primary organ responsible for making blood. It's a soft, spongy tissue located inside bones, and it produces approximately 95% of the body's blood cells. This includes red blood cells, which carry oxygen; white blood cells, which fight infection; and platelets, which help with blood clotting.
Bone Marrow: The Blood Cell Factory
The bone marrow's role in blood cell production is crucial for maintaining overall health. It contains hematopoietic stem cells, which are the building blocks for all blood cells. These stem cells differentiate and mature into the various types of blood cells needed by the body. Major locations for bone marrow in adults include the pelvic bones, breastbone (sternum), and bones of the spine.
- Red blood cells: Carry oxygen throughout the body.
- White blood cells: Part of the immune system, fighting infections and diseases.
- Platelets: Essential for blood clotting, preventing excessive bleeding.
While the bone marrow is the main producer, other organs and systems contribute to blood cell regulation.
Other Contributing Factors
Although the bone marrow is the primary site of blood cell production, the body has other systems that contribute to the regulation and overall functioning of blood. This includes the liver and spleen which assist in breaking down old red blood cells and recycling some of their components. The kidneys play a role in the production of hormones that help regulate red blood cell formation.
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- The bone marrow is the soft, spongy material in the center of the bones. It makes about 95% of the body's blood cells. Most of the adult body's bone marrow is in the pelvic bones, breastbone, and the bones of the spine. There are other organs and systems in our bodies that help regulate blood cells.
- The bone marrow produces stem cells, the building blocks that the body uses to make the different blood cells – red cells, white cells and platelets.
- Blood cells are made in the bone marrow. The bone marrow is the soft, spongy material in the center of the bones. It makes about 95% of the body's blood cells.
- Your bone marrow creates all the red blood cells, nearly all your white blood cells, and all of your platelets. “Both the red and white blood cells are made in the bone marrow.
