Abstract
Bone is an exquisitely sophisticated organ/tissue in mammals. Bone is generally viewed as the main component of the skeleton, providing mechanical and structural support to the rest of the organs and systems. This function is indispensable for life, both during the growth and development period as well as during adult life. However, bone also provides the unique architecture and microenvironment that preserves the niches that maintain immature stem cells. This inadequately recognized function is also essential, because these stem cells are required for tissue repair and regeneration during adult life. In this respect, besides providing mechanical support, bone holds and supports the main reservoir of cells needed to sustain tissue integrity and function throughout our lives. Thus, understanding how bone is made and maintained during life is central to developing adequate strategies to preserve a healthy skeleton as we age; so that proper mechanical support, structural integrity, and tissue repair capacity is maintained.