Bone cells, which are found within the bone tissue, are responsible for the make-up of the skeleton of vertebrates. There are different types of bone tissue in a bone that are made up of different bone cells: there is the compact tissue which is the hard outer part of the bone, the cancellous tissue which is all the spongy tissue inside of the compact tissue, and the subchondral tissue which is the smooth tissue at the end of each bone. Bone cells all work together inside of the bones to help keep up the skeletal system. The bone cells do many things for the skeletal system such as the development of new bones, the maintenance of bones, and the regulation of minerals in the body.
The renewal rate for compact bone tissue is approximately 10% per year in adult humans. This means that about 10% of compact bone tissue is replaced or renewed each year through a process called bone remodeling.
Each kind of cell has a unique characteristics such as shape, size, flexibility, color, and texture. Bone cells combine with other bone cells make bone tissue and so on.
Ligaments connect bone to bone. Tendons attach muscle to bone.
The elastic tissue between each bone in the spine is called the intervertebral disc. It acts as a cushion and shock absorber, allowing for flexibility and movement in the spine.
Articular cartilage
Bone cells are part of the bone tissue, which is a specialized type of connective tissue. A tissue is a collection of cells working together to perform specific functions, while an organ is a more complex structure made up of different types of tissues working together. Therefore, bone cells are considered tissue, not organs.
The lacunae of osseous tissue contain osteocytes, which are mature bone cells that maintain the bone tissue. These cells are embedded within the mineralized matrix of the bone and are connected to each other and to the blood supply through tiny channels called canaliculi. Osteocytes play a key role in bone remodeling and responding to mechanical stresses placed on the bone.
Bone tissue contains calcium, which gives bones their hardness and strength. Calcium is an essential mineral for bone health and is important for maintaining bone density and preventing conditions like osteoporosis.
The six major types of connective tissue are loose connective tissue, dense connective tissue, adipose tissue, cartilage, bone, and blood. Each type serves specific functions in the body, such as providing support, insulation, and flexibility.
Ligaments are strong and flexible and connect bones to each other.
Bone physiology involves two main processes: bone formation (osteogenesis) and bone resorption (osteoclast activity). These processes are tightly regulated by cells called osteoblasts and osteoclasts. The bone remodeling cycle involves the continuous breakdown and rebuilding of bone tissue to maintain skeletal strength and integrity. During this cycle, old or damaged bone is resorbed by osteoclasts, followed by new bone formation by osteoblasts. This process ensures that bone structure and strength are constantly being maintained and adapted to respond to mechanical stress and changes in the body.