Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026
07:10
A Sectioning, Coring, and Image Processing Guide for High-Throughput Cortical Bone Sample Procurement and Analysis for Synchrotron Micro-CT
Published on: June 12, 2020
[Comparation on Haversian system between human and animal bones by imaging analysis]
Hui-Ling Lu1, Jing Zheng, Ya-Nan Yao
1Department of Forensic Biology, Preclinical School of SUN Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China. luhl@mail.sysu.edu.cn
Fa Yi Xue Za Zhi
|July 21, 2006
Summary
Human and animal bones show distinct Haversian system structures. Imaging analysis reveals key differences in Haversian systems, aiding in species identification of bone samples.
Area of Science:
- Comparative bone histology
- Forensic anthropology
- Veterinary anatomy
Background:
- The Haversian system is a key structural component of mammalian bone.
- Understanding species-specific variations is crucial for accurate identification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and delineate the morphological differences of the Haversian system between human and animal bones.
- To assess the utility of imaging analysis in differentiating bone origins.
Main Methods:
- Microscopic examination of ground bone slices from human, dog, pig, cow, and sheep.
- Morphological description and quantitative imaging analysis of Haversian system characteristics.
Main Results:
- Human bones lack plexiform bone and osteon bands, unlike some animal bones.
- Significant variations observed in Haversian system shape, size, location, and density across species.
- Human Haversian systems exhibit larger Haversian lamellae and central canals; imaging analysis confirms differences in central canal diameter and total area percentage.
Conclusions:
- Plexiform bone and osteon bands serve as potential exclusive indicators for human bone identification.
- The structural characteristics of the Haversian system significantly differ between human and animal bone tissues.
- Quantifying the percentage of central canal area via imaging analysis is a valuable method for species identification.
Related Concept Videos
01:18Classification of Bones
The bones of the human skeletal system are of varied shapes, sizes, and functions. They can be classified based on their shape and function into four major classes: long bones, short bones, flat bones, and irregular bones. Some classifications include a fifth type, the sesamoid bones, as a separate class, whereas others categorize them under short bones.
Long and Short Bones
The appendicular skeleton, particularly the upper and lower limbs, is primarily made of long and short bones. The long...
Long and Short Bones
The appendicular skeleton, particularly the upper and lower limbs, is primarily made of long and short bones. The long...
01:55Bone Structure
Within the skeletal system, the structure of a bone, or osseous tissue, can be exemplified in a long bone, like the femur, where there are two types of osseous tissue: cortical and cancellous.
01:27Compact Bone
Most bones contain compact and spongy osseous tissue, but their distribution and concentration vary based on the bone's overall function.
Compact bone, also called cortical bone, is the denser, stronger of the two types of bone tissue. It is found under the periosteum and in the diaphyses of long bones, where it provides support and protection. The microscopic structural unit of compact bone is called an osteon, or haversian system. Each osteon is composed of concentric rings of calcified...
Compact bone, also called cortical bone, is the denser, stronger of the two types of bone tissue. It is found under the periosteum and in the diaphyses of long bones, where it provides support and protection. The microscopic structural unit of compact bone is called an osteon, or haversian system. Each osteon is composed of concentric rings of calcified...
01:40Bone Remodeling
Bone remodeling is a continuous and balanced process of bone resorption by osteoclasts and bone formation by osteoblasts. In adults, it helps maintain bone mass and calcium homeostasis. While mechanical stress can stimulate turnover as part of the normal maintenance and reparative process, several hormones also regulate bone remodeling.