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.

Stems

Stems primarily provide plants structural support. This tutorial includes lectures on the external form of a woody twig ..

Regulation of Organic Metabolism, Growth and Energy Balance

The human body is capable of regulating growth and energy balance through various feedback mechanisms. Get to know the e..

Freshwater Producers and Consumers

Freshwater ecosystem is comprised of four major constituents, namely elements and compounds, plants, consumers, and deco..

Leaves

Leaves are the major photosynthetic organ of a plant. Apart from that, they are also crucial to water movement. In this ..

Human Reproduction

Humans are capable of only one mode of reproduction, i.e. sexual reproduction. Haploid sex cells (gametes) are produced ..

Physical Development in Humans

This tutorial elaborates on the physical development of humans, particularly from puberty to adulthood. Read this tutori..