Lacunae are spaces within bone matrix that house which cell?

Lacunae are spaces within bone matrix that house which cell?

• A. Osteoblast
• B. Osteoclast
• C. Chondrocyte
• D. Osteocyte

Answer: (D)

Lacunae are spaces in the mineralized bone matrix that house osteocytes, the mature bone cells embedded within the bone tissue. These osteocytes originate from osteoblasts, which lay down the bone matrix and become trapped as it hardens, transforming into osteocytes inside these lacunae. The osteocytes extend long processes through tiny channels called canaliculi, connecting with other osteocytes and surface cells to exchange nutrients and signals. They play a key role in maintaining the bone matrix and sensing mechanical strain to help regulate remodeling. The other cell types don’t fit: osteoblasts work on bone surfaces to form new matrix, osteoclasts resorb bone on surfaces, and chondrocytes live in cartilage rather than mineralized bone.

Lacunae are spaces in the mineralized bone matrix that house osteocytes, the mature bone cells embedded within the bone tissue. These osteocytes originate from osteoblasts, which lay down the bone matrix and become trapped as it hardens, transforming into osteocytes inside these lacunae. The osteocytes extend long processes through tiny channels called canaliculi, connecting with other osteocytes and surface cells to exchange nutrients and signals. They play a key role in maintaining the bone matrix and sensing mechanical strain to help regulate remodeling. The other cell types don’t fit: osteoblasts work on bone surfaces to form new matrix, osteoclasts resorb bone on surfaces, and chondrocytes live in cartilage rather than mineralized bone.