Which phase of the bone remodeling cycle is responsible for the deposition of new bone?

• A. Resorption
• B. Formation
• C. Activation
• D. Reversal

Answer: (B)

The phase of the bone remodeling cycle responsible for the deposition of new bone is the formation phase. During this phase, osteoblasts, which are specialized bone-forming cells, synthesize new bone matrix and facilitate the mineralization process. This is critical for maintaining healthy bone density and strength, as the formation of new bone is essential to replace the bone tissue that is resorbed during the earlier resorption phase.

In the context of the overall bone remodeling cycle, which includes alternating phases of resorption and formation, the formation phase ensures that the balance is maintained, allowing bones to adapt to mechanical stresses and repair microdamage over time. Understanding this process is crucial for recognizing how bones maintain structural integrity and for informing treatment options in conditions like osteoporosis, where bone density is compromised.