Decalcified bone specimens are chemically treated to remove the calcium and sectioned with a microtome.

• After staining with H&E all the cells are readily distinguishable.
• Decalcified bone shows osteons very well.

In sections of decalcified bone, you should be able to identify

• Active and inactive periosteum
• Marrow
• Osteoblasts and osteoid
• Multinucleated osteoclasts which may be in Howship’s lacunae and
• The very delicate layer of endosteum that separates the boney trabecula from the marrow.

Compare and contrast periosteum and endosteum.

Bone formation is next.