Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue

Microscopic Anatomy of Bones - The Osteon

Anatomy & Physiology

6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue

Microscopic Anatomy of Bones - The Osteon

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2:09 minutes

Problem 2d

Textbook Question

Match the appropriate name with the structure in the figure.
4. Canaliculus

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the term 'canaliculus': A canaliculus is a small channel or duct in the body, often found in bone tissue or liver tissue. In bones, canaliculi connect lacunae, allowing communication and nutrient exchange between osteocytes. In the liver, canaliculi are involved in bile transport.

Identify the context: Determine whether the question is referring to canaliculi in bone tissue or liver tissue. This will help narrow down the relevant choices.

Review the anatomy of canaliculi in bone tissue: In compact bone, canaliculi are tiny channels that radiate from the lacunae, connecting osteocytes to each other and to the central canal (Haversian canal). This facilitates nutrient and waste exchange.

Review the anatomy of canaliculi in liver tissue: In the liver, bile canaliculi are small ducts formed by hepatocytes that transport bile to larger bile ducts. They play a role in the excretion of bile, which aids in digestion.

Match the correct choices: Based on the context provided in the question, select the options that accurately describe the structure and function of canaliculi in the relevant tissue type.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Canaliculus

A canaliculus is a small channel or duct within the body, often associated with the transport of substances. In the context of anatomy and physiology, canaliculi are particularly important in bone tissue, where they facilitate communication and nutrient exchange between osteocytes, the bone cells. Understanding canaliculi is essential for grasping how bone maintains its health and responds to mechanical stress.

Osteocytes

Osteocytes are mature bone cells that originate from osteoblasts, which are responsible for bone formation. These cells reside in small cavities called lacunae and extend their dendritic processes through canaliculi, allowing them to communicate with other osteocytes and cells. This communication is crucial for maintaining bone density and regulating mineral content, making osteocytes a key component in bone homeostasis.

Bone Remodeling

Bone remodeling is a continuous process where old bone tissue is replaced by new bone tissue, involving the coordinated activity of osteoclasts (bone resorbing cells) and osteoblasts (bone forming cells). This process is essential for maintaining bone strength and integrity, adapting to mechanical loads, and repairing micro-damage. Understanding bone remodeling is vital for comprehending how canaliculi and osteocytes contribute to overall bone health.

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