Answer: The small spaces in the bone matrix where bone cells are located are called lacunae.
Step-by-step explanation:
1) Bone matrix: The bone matrix refers to the hard, dense structure of bone tissue. It is composed of collagen fibers and inorganic mineral salts, such as calcium and phosphate.
2) Bone cells: Bone cells, also known as osteocytes, are the cells responsible for maintaining and remodeling bone tissue. They play a crucial role in bone growth, repair, and mineralization.
3) Lacunae: Lacunae are small spaces or cavities within the bone matrix where bone cells, specifically osteocytes, reside. These spaces are surrounded by the solid bone matrix and are connected to each other through tiny channels called canaliculi.
4) Osteocytes: Osteocytes are mature bone cells that are found within the lacunae. They are responsible for sensing mechanical stress on the bone and maintaining its health by regulating the exchange of nutrients and waste products with nearby blood vessels.
5) Canaliculi: Canaliculi are small channels that connect the lacunae, allowing osteocytes to communicate with each other and receive nutrients and oxygen from nearby blood vessels. Through these channels, osteocytes can also remove waste products and participate in the remodeling of bone tissue.
In summary, lacunae are the small spaces in the bone matrix where bone cells, called osteocytes, are located. These spaces provide a suitable environment for osteocytes to reside, communicate with each other, and perform their vital functions in maintaining and remodeling bone tissue.