Question

Select the correct statement with respect to locomotion in humans

• A. The vertebral column has 10 thoracic vertebrae
• B. The joint between adjacent vertebrae is a fibrous joint
• C. A decreased level of progesterone causes osteoporosis
• D. Accumulation of uric acid crystals in joints causes their inflammation

Answer 1

The correct option is D Accumulation of uric acid crystals in joints causes their inflammation

Thoracic vertebrae are 12 in number. Joints between adjacent vertebrae are cartilaginous joints and the opposing surfaces are connected by fibrocartilage which allows very little movement. Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and loss of bone tissue that may lead to weak and fragile bones. Osteoporosis occurs when there is an imbalance between new bone formation and old bone resorption. Generalized osteoporosis is common in elderly people and in women following menopause. in osteoporosis the osteoblastic (bone forming) activity in the bone usually is less than normal and consequently the rate of bone deposition is depressed. Estrogens inhibit osteoclastic (bone resorption) activity in the bones and therefore stimulate bone growth. After menopause, almost no estrogens are secreted by ovaries. This estrogen deficiency leads to increased osteoclastic activity in the bones, decreased bone matrix and decreased deposition of bone calcium and phosphate. In some women, this effect results in osteoporosis.