Under an electron microscope, the side of the osteoblast facing the osteoid is characterized by:
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Correct answer: Short, irregular cytoplasmic processes
The secretory face of the osteoblast features small cytoplasmic processes that extend into the osteoid. These processes eventually become the connections between osteocytes once the matrix mineralizes.
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More Osteoblasts questions
- From which precursor cell type do osteoblasts directly differentiate?
- Which of the following describes the typical morphology of an active osteoblast seen under a light microscope?
- What is the primary organic component of the bone matrix secreted by osteoblasts?
- The unmineralized, organic matrix newly secreted by osteoblasts is known as:
- Which enzyme is a highly specific histological marker for active osteoblasts and is involved in the mineralization process?
- When an osteoblast becomes completely surrounded by its own secreted matrix and resides in a lacuna, it differentiates into an: