Bone cell

There are three types of bone cells.

• Osteoblasts - These are commonly called bone-forming cells. They secrete osteoid, which forms the bone matrix.
• Osteocytes - A mature osteoblast surrounded by bone matrix.
• Osteoclasts - These function in resorption and degradation of existing bone.

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.

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