Fiber bone, also known as Sharpey's fibers or perforating fibers, is a type of connective tissue that anchors the periosteum (the outer membrane covering bone) to the underlying bone itself. It's composed primarily of strong type I collagen fibers arranged in dense bundles. These fibers act like tiny anchors, firmly securing the periosteum and contributing to the overall strength and structural integrity of the bone.
Understanding Sharpey's Fibers
Sharpey's fibers are crucial for:
- Bone Strength and Stability: They provide a strong connection between the periosteum and the bone matrix, resisting tensile forces and preventing separation.
- Nutrient Delivery: The periosteum contains blood vessels that supply nutrients to the bone. Sharpey's fibers facilitate this process by holding the periosteum in place.
- Bone Growth and Repair: They play a role in bone growth and remodeling by facilitating the attachment of osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) to the bone surface.
Microscopic Structure
Sharpey's fibers are visible microscopically as bundles of collagen fibers penetrating the outer layers of the bone. They extend from the periosteum, weaving through the bone's outer lamellae (layers), ultimately embedding themselves within the bone matrix.
Clinical Significance
Damage to Sharpey's fibers can weaken the bone-periosteum connection, potentially contributing to fractures or other bone-related issues. Understanding their role is important in various fields, including orthopedic surgery and bone research.
The reference states: "Sharpey's fibres (bone fibres, or perforating fibres) are a matrix of connective tissue consisting of bundles of strong predominantly type I collagen fibres connecting periosteum to bone." This definition perfectly aligns with our understanding of fiber bone as Sharpey's fibers.
