ipl-logo

Bones Are A Complex Network Of Specialised Cells

444 Words2 Pages

Bones are a complex network of specialised cells, tissues and structures. The main cells found within bones are osteocytes, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, fibroblasts and osteogenic cells. Each of these cells have a specific role which contributes to the normal growth and function of bone tissue. Bone tissue can be further divided into compact and cancellulous (spongy) bone. These two types of bone tissue contain different structures within which aids in distinguishing them apart. Calcium plays an important role in the body especially in relation to bones as they contain 99% of the body’s calcium. If there is an imbalance in the concentration of calcium then the body’s homeostatic mechanisms will be activated in order to maintain a constant level. …show more content…

Osteogenic cells are unspecialised cells, this therefore allows them to differentiate and develop into osteoblasts. Osteoblasts deposit new bone tissue in the form of an extracular matrix. They all vary in shape which allows then to line different bone surfaces, effectively forming a membrane. Further differentiation results in the formation of osteocytes. These types of cells have a distinct structure which allows them to carry out a specific function. Their main role is the absorption of calcium, which allows it to be exchanged between bones. The structure and make up of this cell allows this function to be carried out as it contains finger like processes which increase the surface area for the absorption of calcium. Another cell which has an increased surface area due to its structure is an osteoclast. This is a large cell with a folded membrane which increases its surface area for its primarily function of bone reabsorption. This is part of the bone remodelling process which involves the removal of minerals and collagen fibres. As part of normal bone function this will occur at a slower rate than bone formation. However if there are abnormalities in the structure of osteoclasts then disorders can arise such as osteoporosis. This is also the case is abnormalities form in

More about Bones Are A Complex Network Of Specialised Cells

Open Document