Osteoclasts
Osteoclasts
Osteoclasts (pronounced: /ˈɒstɪəʊklæsts/) are a type of bone cell that breaks down bone tissue. This function is critical in the maintenance, repair, and remodelling of bones in the human body. The term "osteoclast" comes from the Greek words for "bone" (osteon) and "broken" (clastos).
Function
Osteoclasts are large cells that dissolve the bone. They come from the bone marrow and are related to white blood cells. They are formed from two or more cells that fuse together, so the osteoclasts usually have more than one nucleus. They are located on the surface of the bone mineral next to the dissolving bone.
Formation
Osteoclasts are formed by the fusion of cells in the bone marrow. These cells are called monocytes and macrophages, two types of white blood cells. The process of osteoclast formation is regulated by two key proteins, RANKL (Receptor Activator for Nuclear Factor κ B Ligand) and M-CSF (Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor).
Activity
Osteoclasts are active in bone remodeling, a process in which old bone is broken down so new bone can be formed. This process is critical for the maintenance of healthy bones. When osteoclast activity is too high, it can lead to diseases such as osteoporosis, which is characterized by low bone mass and increased risk of fractures.
Related Terms
- Osteoblasts: Cells that create new bone.
- Osteocytes: Cells that maintain bone.
- Bone remodeling: The process of renewing bone tissue.
- Osteoporosis: A disease characterized by low bone mass and increased risk of fractures.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Osteoclasts
- Wikipedia's article - Osteoclasts
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski