Osteogenic cells are undifferentiated and develop into osteoblasts. When osteoblasts get trapped within the calcified matrix, their structure and function changes; they become osteocytes

. Osteoclasts develop from monocytes and macrophages and differ in appearance from other bone cells.

What type of bone cell was once an osteoblast?

Osteoblasts produce many substances including growth factors, collagenase, osteocalcin, alkaline phosphatase and collagen. The bone matrix eventually grows to surround osteoblasts and the bone material becomes calcified. Once surrounded and trapped, the osteoblast becomes a mature bone cell referred to as an osteocyte.

What cells are precursors to osteoblasts?

In the hollow within bones are many other cell types of the bone marrow. Components that are essential for osteoblast bone formation include mesenchymal stem cells (osteoblast precursor) and blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients for bone formation.