What is the primary function of bone marrow?

The primary function of bone marrow is the production of blood cells, which includes not only red blood cells and white blood cells but also platelets. Bone marrow is a vital tissue found inside certain bones, particularly in the larger bones of the body. It contains hematopoietic stem cells that differentiate into various types of blood cells essential for numerous bodily functions, including transporting oxygen, fighting infections, and aiding in clotting.

One particular type of white blood cell produced in the bone marrow is the B cell, which is crucial for the immune response as it produces antibodies that help the body fight off pathogens. This process of hematopoiesis is fundamental to maintaining a healthy blood supply and ensuring that the immune system works effectively.

The other options refer to functions that do not pertain to bone marrow. Detoxifying blood is primarily the role of the liver, regulating body temperature is managed by the hypothalamus in the brain, and storing vitamins occurs mainly in the liver and fat tissues, not in the bone marrow.