Osteoblasts and osteocytes are two groups of living bone cells. Typically, the osteoblasts develop into osteocyte cells. Here, let us learn the differences between Osteoblasts and Osteocytes.
Table of Contents
Osteoblasts
The bone cells responsible for bone production are termed osteoblasts. These cells are found on the bone’s outer surface, in the marrow cavity, and also in the epiphyseal plate. The enormous multinucleated primordial cells known as osteoprogenitor cells give rise to osteoblasts. Some hormones and bone proteins known as skeletal growth factors promote the differentiation of osteoprogenitor cells into osteoblasts. These growth factors also induce osteoblast development.
Osteoblast Functions
- They play a vital role in developing the bone matrix by secreting type I collagen and a protein called osteocalcin. They also produce other proteins involved in matrix synthesis. These proteins are known as transforming growth factors (TGF).
- They also play a significant role in the calcification of bone. Alkaline phosphatase, an enzyme required for calcium deposition in the bone matrix, is abundant in osteoblasts (calcification). Osteoblasts also synthesise proteins like osteopontin, which plays a vital role in calcification.
- They control the phosphorus and calcium levels in the body and have a significant role in managing bone reabsorption.
After participating in the bone formation process, osteoblasts develop into osteocytes confined within calcified bone lacunae.
See more: Short Notes on Disorders of Bones
Osteocytes
Osteocytes are bone cells that are responsible for bone maintenance. Osteocytes are tiny, flattened, oblate and star-shaped cells that are located in bone lacunae. These cells are produced from matured osteoblasts and are the predominant cells found in a developed bone. The cytoplasmic processes of osteocytes enter tiny canals termed canaliculi and spread throughout the bone matrix. The osteocytes create an extensive lacunocanalicular network inside the mineralised collagen matrix, with dendritic processes residing within canaliculi and cell bodies dwelling within lacunae.
Also, the neighbouring osteocyte processes make contact with each other and thus establish tight junctions.
Functions of Osteocytes
Because of their metabolic activity, they help to keep the bone alive. They keep the calcium exchange between the bone and the ECF (extracellular fluid) going. They also act similarly to the nervous system in signal transmission and molecular synthesis. Osteocytes also play a major role in bone mass regulation.
Difference between Osteoblast and Osteocytes
| Osteoblasts | Osteocytes |
|---|---|
| Osteoblasts play a vital role in bone development. | Osteocytes play a vital role in bone maintenance. |
| They are formed from osteoprogenitor stem cells. | They are mature cells formed from osteoblasts. |
| They are found on the bone’s outer surface. | They are found in bone lacunae. |
| They are mononucleate cuboidal cells with no projections. | They are star-shaped with a characteristic dendritic process. |
Explore all the important topics aligned with the updated NEET Biology syllabus, only at BYJU’S. Also, check other important Difference Between Topics.
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| Difference between Spongy and Compact Bones |
|---|
| Difference between Basal Bone and Alveolar Bone |
| Difference between Compact and Trabecular Bone |
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