Which cells are mature bone cells embedded in bone matrix that help regulate remodeling?

Which cells are mature bone cells embedded in bone matrix that help regulate remodeling?

• A. Osteogenic Cells
• B. Osteoblasts
• C. Osteocytes
• D. Osteoclasts

Answer: (C)

Osteocytes are mature bone cells embedded in the bone matrix that regulate remodeling. They reside in lacunae and send extensions through canaliculi to form a communication network, sensing mechanical strain and signaling to surface cells to coordinate bone formation and resorption. They originate when osteoblasts become trapped in the secreted matrix as it hardens, then help balance deposition and resorption to maintain bone strength and mineral homeostasis. Other cell types have different roles: osteogenic cells are progenitors at bone surfaces that can become osteoblasts; osteoblasts synthesize new bone and can mature into osteocytes; osteoclasts are the large resorbing cells that break down bone.

Osteocytes are mature bone cells embedded in the bone matrix that regulate remodeling. They reside in lacunae and send extensions through canaliculi to form a communication network, sensing mechanical strain and signaling to surface cells to coordinate bone formation and resorption. They originate when osteoblasts become trapped in the secreted matrix as it hardens, then help balance deposition and resorption to maintain bone strength and mineral homeostasis. Other cell types have different roles: osteogenic cells are progenitors at bone surfaces that can become osteoblasts; osteoblasts synthesize new bone and can mature into osteocytes; osteoclasts are the large resorbing cells that break down bone.