Canaliculi connect lacunae, the small spaces that house osteocytes.
They enable the transport of nutrients and waste materials between blood vessels and bone cells.
Canaliculi are a crucial part of the bone's Haversian system or osteon.
They play a significant role in maintaining the viability of osteocytes embedded in the mineralized matrix.
The network formed by canaliculi ensures that even cells deep within bone tissue receive sufficient nutrition.
Review Questions
What is the primary function of canaliculi in bone tissue?
How do canaliculi contribute to the health of osteocytes?
Describe how canaliculi are arranged within an osteon.
Related terms
Osteocyte: A mature bone cell that maintains bone tissue and resides in lacunae.
Lacunae: Small cavities within the bone matrix that house osteocytes.
Haversian System (Osteon): The fundamental functional unit of compact bone, consisting of concentric layers of calcified matrix around a central canal.