Bone (anatomy)

A rigid organ of the skeleton, composed mainly of mineralized connective tissue and containing marrow, blood vessels, and nerves.

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Osteoblast: A bone-forming cell that produces and mineralizes the organic bone matrix. Osteoblasts build new matrix on bone surfaces.
Bone remodeling: The lifelong process in which old bone is resorbed and new bone is formed. Remodeling renews bone and adjusts its structure to changing demands.
Bone fracture: A break in the continuity of a bone, usually caused by trauma or weakened bone. Fractures reveal how bone fails and repairs itself.
Skeleton: The body’s framework of bones and associated connective tissues that supports and protects the body. Bones are the structural organs that make up the skeleton.
Osteoclast: A large cell that dissolves mineral and degrades bone matrix during resorption. Osteoclasts remove old or damaged bone.
Ossification: The process by which bone tissue forms, either directly or by replacing cartilage. Ossification builds bones during development and growth.
Osteoporosis: A skeletal disorder marked by reduced bone strength and increased fracture risk. It shows how changes in bone mass and architecture weaken the skeleton.
Cartilage: A resilient connective tissue that supports structures and provides smooth surfaces at many joints. Cartilage shapes developing bones and cushions many joint surfaces.
Osteocyte: A mature bone cell embedded in the mineralized matrix, where it senses mechanical strain and helps regulate remodeling. Osteocytes maintain the matrix and signal in response to loading.
Bone mineralization: The deposition of calcium phosphate mineral in the organic bone matrix. Mineralization hardens newly formed matrix.