Topic overview

Start with the big picture

Bone matrix combines an organic component, including type I collagen and ground substance, with an inorganic mineral component. Osteoblasts form bone matrix, osteocytes maintain it, and osteoclasts resorb it. Compact bone is arranged into osteons, while spongy bone forms trabeculae. Coverings such as the periosteum and endosteum are associated with bone surfaces and internal spaces. Long bones have distinct regions, including the diaphysis, metaphysis, and epiphyses, and bones are classified by shape into groups such as long, short, flat, irregular, and sesamoid. This preview introduces those structural foundations; the full lesson develops bone histology, formation, growth, remodeling, and the factors that contribute to bone strength.