Osteocyte

Osteocytes are mononuclear cells which lie in a lacunar of the mineralized bone matrix. They arise from osteoblasts, which are immured in the course of osteogenesis. They are thus in a cavity system between each bone lamellae. This cavity system consists of lacunae in which the cell body is located, and channels, in which there are cellular extensions.

The osteocytes fill these voids is not complete. It remains clear a container filled with collagen fibrils and interstitial fluid cavity. Through this system, the osteocytes by diffusion can be achieved. The function of osteocytes is not yet fully understood, but it is believed that they are involved in the regulation of bone formation or bone remodeling, as areas in which they have died, are degraded by osteoclasts.

Histology

In the preparation of the bone lamellae aligned parallel nucleus is visible. The actual shape of the cell can be seen only in special colors which make the system visible cavity in which the cells lie.