Home »
Ai Insights Guide »
Which Cells Have Ruffled?
Which Cells Have Ruffled?
Maya Lin-Takahashi••6 min read
Osteoclasts are large multinucleated cells
multinucleated cells
Multinucleate cells (multinucleated or polynuclear cells) are eukaryotic cells that have more than one nucleus per cell, i.e., multiple nuclei share one common cytoplasm. ... For example, slime molds have a vegetative, multinucleate life stage called a plasmodium.
, with a 'ruffled border' that resorb bone matrix, as shown in the diagram above. They are important for remodelling, growth and repair of bone. (clast - greek 'to break'). Osteoclasts are not derived from osteoprogenitor cells
osteoprogenitor cells
Osteoprogenitor cells are the 'stem' cells of bone, and are the source of new osteoblasts. Osteoblasts, lining the surface of bone, secrete collagen and the organic matrix of bone (osteoid), which becomes calcified soon after it has been deposited. As they become trapped in the organic matrix, they become osteocytes.
This extensively folded or ruffled border facilitates bone removal by dramatically increasing the cell surface for secretion and uptake of the resorption compartment contents and is a morphologic characteristic of an osteoclast that is actively resorbing bone.
Which cells give rise to osteoclasts?
Osteoclasts are multinucleated cells that derive from hematopoietic progenitors in the bone marrow which also give rise to monocytes in peripheral blood, and to the various types of tissue macrophages. Osteoclasts are formed by the fusion of precursor cells.
Maya is a hardware enthusiast who tests and reviews smart home devices, smartphones, wearables, and audio gear. She focuses on practical consumer value and build quality.
