Bone Cells

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Bone Cells

Other than marrow cells, there are three types of bone cells:
Osteoblasts
  • Primary function is bone formation
  • Produces osteoid
  • Has basophilic cytoplasm
Osteocytes
  • Star shaped cell
  • Formed when an osteoblast becomes embedded in the matrix it has secreted
  • Found in bone canaliculi
  • Cellular processes used for exchange of nutrients and waste
Osteoclasts
  • Large, multinucleated cells
  • Responsible for bone erosion and bone resorption
  • Found in small clusters on bone surfaces undergoing resorption
  • Resorption refers to the loss of bone with the release of calcium from bone to blood