Osteocytes

Definition

Osteocytes are mature bone cells that maintain the mineral content of the surrounding bone matrix. They are derived from osteoblasts and reside in small cavities called lacunae.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Osteocytes communicate with each other and other bone cells through long cytoplasmic extensions in tiny channels called canaliculi.
2. They play a crucial role in the maintenance, repair, and turnover of the mineral content of bone.
3. Osteocytes can live for decades within the bone matrix, making them some of the longest-living cells in the body.
4. These cells help regulate calcium levels by releasing signals to osteoclasts and osteoblasts during bone remodeling.
5. The transformation from osteoblast to osteocyte involves the cell becoming completely surrounded by its own secreted matrix.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of an osteocyte?
• How do osteocytes communicate with each other within the bone matrix?
• What process do osteocytes undergo to transform from their precursor cells?

Related terms

Osteoblasts:

Cells responsible for forming new bone tissue.

Lacunae: Small cavities within the bone matrix that house osteocytes.

Canaliculi:

Tiny channels in bones that allow communication between osteocytes.