ABSTRACT
Understanding the bone must begin with a knowledge of its component cells, proteins, and minerals. The most important cells in the bone are the osteoclasts and osteoblasts, which form an intimately linked pair in the formation and remodeling of the bone. Osteoclasts are related to macrophages and function in the resorption of the bone. Osteoblasts (of mesenchymal stem cell origin) function in deposition of new bone matrix.19 Working together through an intricate pattern of intercellular communication under local and systemic hormonal control, osteoblasts and osteoclasts execute the critical ongoing process of bone remodeling.29 Both the structural integrity of the bone and serum calcium balance depend on this process occurring correctly. Several common disorders of bone remodeling are discussed in the succeeding text. Other important cells in the bone include osteocytes, broblasts, chondrocytes, and lining cells; a summary of bone cells and their corresponding functions is listed in Table 8.2.
