The most interesting information related to the research is the relationship between the skeletal and immune systems. There is bone marrow inside the interior walls of the bones, which is essential for proper immune system development. In addition, there are stem cells inside this region, which are crucial for immune system maintenance. The process of cellular blood components formation is called hematopoiesis, and it takes place in the internal part of the bone. In particular, there is a production of hematopoietic stem cells, which are precursors of all types of blood cells. One of the cellular components is white blood cells, which help the organism fight against pathogens. For example, phagocytes can ingest harmful particles and digest them, while lymphocytes T and B cells produce antibodies. All of the processes mentioned are possible due to the correct maintenance of the skeletal system.
In turn, the immune system protects the skeleton and muscles from internal hazards, which may cause severe disorders. People with autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis may develop secondary osteoporosis, a deterioration of bones, which become porous, brittle, and more susceptible to fracture. For example, people with systemic lupus erythematosus have higher risks of developing osteoporosis because of the prescribed glucocorticoid medications promoting bone loss. Another reason is that systemic lupus erythematosus is accompanied by pain and fatigue, making the person inactive and weak, which will increase the risk of osteoporosis. Thus, there is a strong connection between the skeletal and immune systems, as the first one allows for the production of precursors of white blood cells, while the second protects the skeleton from various diseases.
References
Arron, J. R., & Choi, Y. (2000). Bone versus immune system. Nature, 408(6812), 535–536. Web.
Mori, G., D’Amelio, P., Faccio, R., & Brunetti, G. (2013). The Interplay between the Bone and the Immune System. Clinical and Developmental Immunology, 2013, 1–16. Web.