Yellow bone marrow is a specialized type of tissue found within the interior of long bones in the human body, particularly in the central shafts of adult long bones. It is composed predominantly of fat cells known as adipocytes, which give it its distinct yellow color. Yellow bone marrow is one of two types of bone marrow within the skeletal system, the other being red bone marrow.
Unlike red bone marrow, which is primarily responsible for hematopoiesis (the production of blood cells), yellow bone marrow serves a different function. Its primary role is to store and release fat cells, providing a source of energy, insulation, and protection for vital organs and long bones. The adipocytes within yellow bone marrow also have a supportive role, maintaining the shape and structure of the bone.
While red bone marrow is predominant in infants and young children, it gradually transitions to yellow bone marrow as an individual matures. Typically, in adults, the majority of bone marrow is converted to yellow bone marrow, with exceptions occurring in certain bones such as the hip, sternum, ribs, and vertebrae, which retain red bone marrow throughout adulthood.
Yellow bone marrow has garnered interest in medical research due to its potential as a source of stem cells for therapeutic applications. These stem cells, known as mesenchymal stem cells, have the ability to develop into various cell types, including bone, muscle, and cartilage, which may hold promise for regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.
