Bone and Tissue

Module 04 Case Study: Bone Tissue

Part I— “Marissa” Questions

1. Describe bone tissue and the role each component plays in bone physiology and remodeling. What is the difference between compact and spongy bone? (2 points) Living bone is constantly being remodeled. The state of our bones is always close to an equilibrium between bone formation and bone resorption. Compact and spongy bones are considered the two basic structural bone types. The best explanation of the difference between the two is that the spongy bones in terms of area can be found at the head part of long bones. It also fills up the bones of an irregular type. Compact bones, on the other hand, can be found at the outer layer of the bone. It also forms the outer layer plus the shaft of the long type of bones.

2. Explain the relationship between calcium and bones. (1 point) As calcium is one of the main components of our bones, large amounts are present in our body.

3. Explain how the body controls calcium levels in the bones and blood. Be sure to describe the roles of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcitonin in detail. (2 points) The bones are a huge resource for the body to get the amount of calcium it needs to function properly. Osteocytes are responsible for maintaining mineral concentrations within the matrix, this includes calcium. Canaliculi are channels that hold long cytoplasmic processes throughout the bone matrix, allowing osteocytes to communicate and regulate nutrients within the bones. The Parathyroid hormone and calcitonin are hormones that regulate the level of calcium in the blood needed for the body to function in a homeostatic level. When the level of calcium needs to be increase the parathyroid hormone is stimulated allowing the level of calcium to increase.

4. Explain specifically how osteoporosis affects the bone matrix and the normal bone remodeling cycle. (1 point) In osteoporosis, the osteoclasts are breaking down bone faster than the...