Bone marrow is a soft, spongy tissue found in the cavities of bones. It is responsible for the production of blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body's tissues, white blood cells help fight infections, and platelets are involved in blood clotting. Bone marrow also contains stem cells, which have the ability to develop into different types of blood cells.
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Google Gemini AI
Aug 24
Definition:
Bone marrow is a specialized, soft tissue located within the cavities of bones. It is responsible for the production of blood cells and immune cells.
Types of Bone Marrow:
- Red bone marrow: Produces red blood cells (erythrocytes), white blood cells (leukocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes). - Yellow bone marrow: Consists primarily of fat cells.
Roles of Bone Marrow:
1. Hematopoiesis (Blood Cell Production):
- Generates red blood cells (oxygen-carrying cells) necessary for tissue respiration. - Produces white blood cells (immune cells) such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, and monocytes that defend against infections. - Generates platelets (clotting factors) involved in blood coagulation.
2. Stem Cell Reservoir:
- Contains hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), which are immature cells that can differentiate into all types of blood cells. - HSCs provide a lifelong supply of blood-forming cells, ensuring constant renewal of blood components.
3. Immune System Contributor:
- Produces immune cells such as B cells and T cells, which are essential for recognizing and eliminating pathogens. - Stores macrophages, specialized cells that engulf and destroy foreign invaders.
4. Metabolism and Regulation:
- Involved in the metabolism of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. - Produces hematopoietic growth factors, signaling molecules that stimulate blood cell production.
5. Fat Storage:
- Yellow bone marrow contains adipocytes (fat cells) that serve as an energy reserve for the body. - This fat can be mobilized during periods of calorie deficit or increased energy demand.
Clinical Significance:
Bone marrow disorders can affect its ability to produce blood cells and contribute to conditions such as:
- Anemia (low red blood cell count) - Leukemia (cancer of blood cells) - Lymphoma (cancer of immune cells)
Bone marrow biopsies and aspirations are commonly used medical tests to diagnose and monitor these conditions.