Bone Cell Function: A Review

Abstract

Bone is dynamic tissue which is continuously formed and absorbed by its own cells in response to stimuli such as hormones, mechanical loading and growth factors. Understanding the function of bone cells is important, not only in orthopedic field but also in research study involving bone. Bone cells work in harmony to maintain a balance between bone formation and resorption, ultimately to control bone structure and function. Osteoblasts are cells, which contribute to deposition of organic components of bone extracellular matrix. They control recruitment, differentiation and maturation of osteoclasts that participate in resorption activity. In addition, osteoclasts associated with bone resorption also express several factors that regulate osteoblast function. Osteocytes, the terminally differentiated osteoblasts, act as the mechano-sensors and modulate both osteoblast and osteoclast activity, and regulate mineral homeostasis in bone tissue and mineral concentration in the blood. Similarly, bone lining cells are
thought to play a role in regulation of calcium and phosphate metabolism in bone tissue, and aid osteoclasts and osteoblasts in bone remodeling.