Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

What is the name of the bone cells that begin to develop mature bone?

1. Osteoblast

2. Osteocyte

3. Osteoclast

4. Chondrocyte

The correct answer is: Osteocyte

The cells responsible for the formation of new bone are known as osteoblasts. These specialized cells synthesize and secrete the components necessary for bone matrix formation, playing a crucial role in the mineralization process that transforms the matrix into mature bone. Osteoblasts are essential during the growth and repair of bones. In contrast, osteocytes, which were identified as the correct answer, are actually mature bone cells derived from osteoblasts that have become embedded in the bone matrix. While osteocytes maintain the bone tissue and communicate with other bone cells to regulate bone remodeling, they do not initiate the process of developing new bone. Osteoclasts are another type of bone cell that specialize in bone resorption, breaking down bone tissue to release minerals back into the bloodstream. Chondrocytes, on the other hand, are cells that produce and maintain cartilage, not bone. Understanding the functions of these various cell types is crucial in learning about bone biology and the processes involved in bone growth and maintenance.