Summary

Osteoclasts are a type of cell that breaks down bone tissue, releasing its components into our bloodstream. In doing this, osteoclasts release calcium back into the bloodstream, thereby increasing calcium levels.

Key Points

• Osteoclasts
  • Osteoprogenitor cells
    • Differentiate into osteoblasts 
  • Resorb bone matrix 
    • Release proteolytic enzymes and acid that breaks down bone mineralization and the osteoid matrix
    • OsteoClasts Consume bone 
    • Reduce bone density
  • Release calcium into blood
  • Develop from monocytes