What happens to osteocytes when the surrounding bone tissue is no longer supplied with blood (e.g., in a fracture)?
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Correct answer: They undergo apoptosis, leaving empty lacunae.
Osteocytes are highly dependent on the diffusion of nutrients through the canalicular system. When blood flow is interrupted, these cells die, leaving behind empty lacunae, which is a classic histological sign of bone necrosis.
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More Osteocytes questions
- Under electron microscopy, the space between the osteocyte plasma membrane and the lacunar wall is termed the:
- Osteocytes represent approximately what percentage of all cells in mature bone tissue?
- Which hormone is known to increase the rate of osteocytic osteolysis to raise blood calcium?
- The 'half-life' of an osteocyte can be as long as:
- In a histological section of bone, the radiating appearance of canaliculi is often compared to:
- Which enzyme, also found in osteoclasts, is expressed by osteocytes during matrix remodeling of the lacunar walls?