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The mysterious structure of bones: Do you know how they support the entire body?
Bones are an important part of the skeleton of most vertebrates and have multiple functions, including protecting internal organs, producing blood cells, and storing minerals. Not only are they structurally strong, they are also extremely diverse, with bones of different shapes and sizes forming a complex system of internal and external structures. So, what is the mystery of bones?
Bone tissue is a specialized connective tissue with a honeycomb-like internal structure that gives bones their strength and stability.
At birth, humans have about 300 bones in their bodies, and as they grow, many of these bones fuse, leaving 206 separate bones in adulthood. Bones play an important role in our bodies: not only do they provide support, they also accommodate many critical physiological functions.
The structure of bones
Bone is not a homogeneous solid mass, but is composed of approximately 30% flexible matrix and 70% mineral, which are intertwined and continuously remodeled by a population of specialized bone cells.
90% to 95% of bone mass is made up of elastic collagen fibers, the elasticity of these fibers increases the bone's resistance to fracture.
Cortex and cancellous tissue
The outer layer of bones is made up of compact bone, called cortical bone. Its main functions are to support the entire body, protect the internal organs, provide a lever for movement, and store and release chemical elements, especially calcium. Cortical bone accounts for 80% of the total skeletal mass in adults.
Compared to cortical bone, cancellous bone is a reticular tissue containing an open cell structure, and its structure is important for metabolic activities (such as the exchange of calcium ions). Cancellous bone is found at the ends of long bones and inside the spine.
The role of bone marrow
Bone marrow, especially red bone marrow, is primarily located in those bones that have spongy tissue. Red bone marrow is responsible for the production of blood cells, and as we age, fat tissue gradually replaces red bone marrow to form yellow bone marrow.
Blood supply to bonesThe blood supply to bones is quite important, accounting for 10% of the heart's output. Blood flows through the intima into the bone marrow and out of the cortex through small blood vessels.
Bone cell diversity
Bone is a metabolically active tissue composed of a variety of cells, including bone-forming cells (osteoblasts), osteocytes, and bone-absorbing cells (osteoclasts). Together, these cells maintain the balance of bone tissue.
Osteoblasts are responsible for the formation and mineralization of bone tissue, while osteoclasts are responsible for the absorption of bone tissue. This dynamic balance ensures the health and strength of bones.
Bone composition
The major inorganic component of bone is hydroxyapatite, a bone mineral that provides structural support for bones. 30% of bone cells are organic components, mainly composed of collagen, which gives bones sufficient tensile strength and elasticity.
Bone Types
There are five main types of bones in the human body: long bones, short bones, flat bones, irregular bones, and sesamoid bones. Each bone has different characteristics and physiological roles depending on its shape and function.
Bone development
Bone formation is called ossification and occurs primarily through two processes: intramembranous ossification and endochondral ossification. Intramembranous ossification occurs primarily during the formation of flat bones in the fetus, whereas endochondral ossification occurs during the development of most other bones.
Before the skeleton matures, all cartilage is replaced by bone in a process called bone replacement.
By gaining a deeper understanding of bone structure and function, we can not only better understand how the human body works, but also reflect on how we can better protect these critical support structures. Are you ready to take action to address the challenges of bone health in the days ahead?
