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Function of osteocytes in bone

E M Aarden1, E H Burger, P J Nijweide

  • 1Department of Cell Biology, University of Leiden, The Netherlands.

Journal of Cellular Biochemistry
|July 1, 1994
PubMed
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Osteocytes, the most abundant bone cells, are crucial for bone metabolism. Emerging evidence suggests osteocytes act as mechanosensors, playing a key role in bone

Area of Science:

  • Bone Biology
  • Cellular Biology
  • Skeletal Physiology

Background:

  • Osteocytes are the most abundant cell type in bone, originating from osteoblasts.
  • Despite their prevalence, the precise function of osteocytes in bone metabolism remains largely unknown.
  • Osteocytes possess unique cellular features, including extensive network connections via canaliculi and microfilament-packed processes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current theories on osteocyte function.
  • To highlight the potential role of osteocytes in bone metabolism, turnover, and mechanosensation.
  • To emphasize the significance of the mechanosensory role of osteocytes in bone adaptation.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on osteocyte biology and function.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Analysis of biomechanical, biochemical, and cell biological evidence supporting osteocyte theories.
  • Discussion of theoretical frameworks for osteocyte roles in bone.

    • Main Results:

    • Three primary theories of osteocyte function are discussed: involvement in bone turnover, ion exchange via the osteocyte network, and mechanosensation.
    • The mechanosensory theory, proposing osteocytes as key mechanosensors for bone adaptation, is particularly supported by available evidence.
    • Osteocyte differentiation involves loss of organelles and development of specialized cell processes.

    Conclusions:

    • Osteocytes are critically important for bone health and adaptation.
    • The mechanosensory role of osteocytes warrants further investigation due to substantial supporting evidence.
    • Understanding osteocyte function provides insights into bone remodeling and disease.