Bone marrow is the spongy tissue found inside some of the larger bones in the body, including the hip and thigh bones. It is a crucial part of the body's hematopoietic system, responsible for the production of blood cells. There are two main types of bone marrow: red marrow and yellow marrow.
Red marrow is found in the cavities of spongy bone and is responsible for the production of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It is highly vascular and contains hematopoietic stem cells, which can differentiate into various types of blood cells. Red marrow is prominent in the bones of infants and is gradually replaced by yellow marrow in adulthood.
Yellow marrow is found in the central cavities of long bones and consists mainly of fat cells. While it does not actively produce blood cells, yellow marrow can transform back into red marrow in cases of severe blood loss or blood disorders, to help with the replenishment of blood cells.
To study bone marrow effectively, consider the following key points:
By mastering these key points, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the importance and function of bone marrow in the human body.