Which of the following describes the primary developmental origin of an osteocyte?
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Correct answer: An osteoblast trapped in its own secreted matrix
Osteocytes are mature bone cells that originate from osteoblasts. Once an osteoblast surrounds itself with osteoid that subsequently mineralizes, it transitions into an osteocyte residing within a lacuna.
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More Osteocytes questions
- In mature compact bone, where are the cell bodies of osteocytes located?
- What is the primary function of the canaliculi in bone tissue?
- Osteocytes communicate with neighboring cells via which type of junction?
- Which of the following is considered the most significant functional role of the osteocyte in adult bone?
- Compared to osteoblasts, osteocytes generally show which histological characteristic?
- What is the biological significance of 'pericellular fluid' within the lacuno-canalicular system?