Cancellous bone

Definition
noun
(1) The osseous tissue that fills the interior or cavity of bones with a latticework of small spicules or flat pieces of mineralized bars (trabeculae) and interstices containing bone marrow or fat.
(2) The tissue inside of bones that resembles a sponge or a honeycomb with spaces containing bone marrow or fat.
Supplement
This type of osseous tissue lies subjacent to the compact bone, and is made distinct by its spongy structure. It is found at the ends of long bones and in the vertebrae. It has low density and strength but has high surface area that allows room for blood vessels and marrow. The outer surface layer of this tissue contains the red bone marrow where hematopoiesis takes place.
Word origin: cancellous refers to the mesh of tiny spicules forming the bony tissue.
Synonym: spongy bone, trabecular bone, spongy substance, substantia spongiosa (Latin name), spongiosa.

Compare: compact bone.

See also: bone marrow, hematopoiesis.

Sugar Homeostasis

The blood sugar level is regulated by two hormones. The mechanism behind this type of negative feedback control is descr..

Genetic Engineering Advantages & Disadvantages

This tutorial presents the benefits and the possible adverse eventualities of genetic engineering. Know more about this ..

Growth and Plant Hormones

Plants, like animals, produce hormones to regulate plant activities, including growth. They need these hormones to respo..

Plant Water Regulation

Plants need to regulate water in order to stay upright and structurally stable. Find out the different evolutionary adap..

Genetics – Lesson Outline & Worksheets

Topics Modules Quizzes/Worksheets Description Introduction to Genetics Genetics – Definition: Heredity and ..

Psychiatry & Mental Disorders

Different mental disorders are described here. Read this tutorial to get an overview of schizophrenia, affective mood di..