No, in the human body, the vertebra make up the spinal column. The spinal cord passes through the vertebra, and the vertebra protect it. Vertebra are made of bone and cartilage, and extend from the neck to the tailbone. They sit atop one another and, since they are not fused to one another, allow for flexibility (turning, bending). The vertebra are a connection point for muscles and other bones, such as the rib cage.