Bone cell

There are five types of bone cells.

• Osteoblasts - These are commonly called bone-forming cells. They secrete osteoid, which forms the bone matrix. They also begin mineralization, and are unable to divide.
• Osteocytes - A mature osteoblast which no longer secretes matrix, yet is surrounded by it. Maintains metabolism, and participates in nutrient/waste exchange via blood. Unable to divide.
• Osteoclasts - These function in resorption and degradation of existing bone, the opposite of osteoblasts! Monocytes (White blood cells) fuse together to create these huge cells, which are concentrated in the endosteum.
• ((Osteogenic))
• ((bone-lining))

Although osteogenic or osteoprogenitor cells are commonly mentioned in bone literature, these do not appear to be a unique type of cell. Rather, osteoblasts derive from mesenchymal stem cells, which have shown the ability to differentiate into chondrocytes and adipocytes as well. Adipocytes are worm like substances that live and never move freely around and in the bone structure.

References

• Bone marrow mesenchymal cells: biological properties and clinical applications. PMID: 11388742
• Bone marrow stromal stem cells: nature, biology, and potential applications. PMID: 11359943
• Stem cell information