Reserve zone

Definition

The reserve zone is a region of the growth plate in long bones where chondrocytes (cartilage cells) are stored and not yet actively engaged in bone growth. These cells serve as a supply for future bone lengthening and development.

Related terms

Chondrocytes:

Cells found within cartilage tissue that undergo mitosis to promote bone growth and repair.

Growth plate: A layer of cartilage located near the ends of long bones that allows the bone to grow in length during childhood and adolescence.

Ossification:

The process by which bone tissue is formed from cartilage, leading to the hardening of the skeletal structure