Question

What are the components of cancellous (spongy) bone and marrow (red)?

Answer 1

Cancellous (spongy) bone consists of trabeculae or bony spicules that form a meshwork, creating a network of spaces. The spaces are filled with red bone marrow. Red bone marrow is responsible for hematopoiesis, the formation of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. So, the components of cancellous bone include the trabeculae or bony spicules, and red bone marrow.

Answer 2

Cancellous bone, or spongy bone, is composed of trabeculae with osteocytes and spaces filled with red bone marrow that produces blood cells. This structure makes bones lighter and facilitates hematopoiesis.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cancellous bone, also known as spongy bone, is found in the interior of bones. It is comprised of a lattice-like network of matrix spikes called trabeculae. These trabeculae are not haphazardly arranged; they follow the lines of stress within the bone to provide structural strength. The spaces within this network make the bones lighter, aiding in movement by the muscles. Within the trabeculae, osteocytes are housed in lacunae. In contrast to compact bone, cancellous bone does not contain osteons.

Red marrow, present in the spaces between the trabeculae of spongy bone, plays a critical role in hematopoiesis, the process of forming blood cells. It contains hematopoietic stem cells, which give rise to red and white blood cells, and platelets. This red bone marrow is primarily found in the femur, the ilium, and other large bones.

Blood vessels weave through the cancellous bone, providing nutrients to osteocytes and aiding in waste removal. Thus, the cancellous bone and red marrow together form an integral part of the skeletal system, contributing to both the structural integrity of bones and the formation of blood cells.