cells present in bone

Question 1

what cells are present in bone

Answer 1

osteoblasts- lay down new bone tissue
osteocytes- derived from osteoblasts (trapped in bone matrix)
osteoclasts- break down bone tissue

Question 2

what are osteoblasts

Answer 2

• responsible for laying down new bone tissue
• have only one nucleus
• create type of bone tissue called osteoid: primarily from secretion of collagen, mineralised with calcium (& others)
• these crystallise onto the tissue, strengthens it

Question 3

what are osteocytes

Answer 3

• after bone tissue has been built, osteoblasts become trapped deep in bone matrix
• osteoblasts change character to become osteocytes
• most common bone cell- very long lived
• located in compartments called lacuna

Question 4

function of osteocytes

Answer 4

• direct mineralisation
• signal to osteoclasts to repair damage to bone tissue
• involved in release of Ca and P into bloodstream to maintain homeostasis
• communicate with neighbouring osteocytes through fine processes which run thru tubes known as canaliculi

Question 5

what are osteoclasts

Answer 5

• very large bone cels which are formed within marrow of bone
• have multiple nuclei (formed from fusion of monocyte precursors)

Question 6

role of osteoclasts

Answer 6

• responsible for breaking down bone tissue- secrete powerful enzymes and acids
• essential for normal bone development, growth and healing
• help to regulate minerals in bloodstream e.g. essential for mineral homeostasis