Bone structure and function

Abstract

This chapter discusses the normal structure and function of the skeleton and the various ways it is regulated. The skeleton is both an organ and a type of connective tissue. Knowledge of its various identifiable parts greatly facilitates an understanding of skeletal function and also the disease processes that can occur. Normally, the major skeletal processes of resorption and formation are tightly coupled. This feature plays a role in the normal function of skeletal renewal. Disturbances of the remodeling cycle can be seen in a number of generalized skeletal disorders including metabolic bone disease and conditions such as Paget disease. This chapter discusses the macroscopic and microscopic anatomy of the skeleton as well as its biochemical makeup. It introduces the emerging information about the molecular control of bone cells and the skeletal processes. © 2010 Humana Press.