Osteocytes
Osteocytes
Osteocytes (pronounced: os·te·o·cytes, /ˌɒstiːəʊˈsaɪts/) are a type of bone cell that make up a significant portion of the bone tissue. They are derived from osteoblasts, or bone-forming cells, and are essentially osteoblasts surrounded by the products they secreted.
Etymology
The term "osteocyte" comes from the Greek words "osteon," meaning bone, and "kytos," meaning cell.
Function
Osteocytes are the most abundant cell type in bone. They are responsible for the maintenance of the bone matrix, the hard part of the bone. They also communicate with other types of bone cells, such as osteoblasts and osteoclasts, to control the remodelling of the bone.
Structure
Osteocytes are located within spaces called lacunae and have long, thin extensions that allow them to connect and communicate with other osteocytes. These extensions run through tiny channels in the bone called canaliculi.
Related Terms
- Osteoblasts: The cells that form new bone. They secrete the matrix for bone formation.
- Osteoclasts: The cells that break down and reabsorb bone.
- Lacunae: The small spaces that contain the osteocytes in bone.
- Canaliculi: The small channels that allow for communication between osteocytes.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Osteocytes
- Wikipedia's article - Osteocytes
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