Supporting apparatus of vertebrates: Skeleton and bones

Abstract

In vertebrates the skeleton consists of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons and serves two major purposes: it is a supporting structure and a metabolic organ. With regard to the first aspect, the skeleton enables locomotion and supports the shape of the body. Moreover, bones protect internal organs such as the brain, heart, lung, and bone marrow. The bone marrow is an important site for the production of blood and immune cells. With regard to the metabolic function of the skeleton, the bone serves as an important storage organ for specific minerals. Very recent data also indicate that the bone is involved in the regulation of carbohydrate metabolism.