Osteoblast
Definition
An osteoblast is a cell that produces bone matrix and contributes to mineralisation during bone formation. Its biological role differs from that of an osteocyte embedded within the matrix, while forensic recovery depends on tissue preservation and preparation.
- Context
- Cell biology
For example, a bone-forming cell has a different tissue role from a cell already embedded within the mineralised matrix.
Related terms
- Demineralisation
- Removal or dissolution of mineral under specified preparation conditions. Demineralisation can make mineralised tissue more accessible, while lysis disrupts cells or tissue...
- Diagenesis
- Postmortem physical, chemical and biological alteration of material. Those processes can affect appearance, composition and preserved biological information. Alteration does not follow...
- Osteocyte
- An osteocyte is a bone cell embedded within the tissue matrix and involved in its regulation. Its identification describes a cellular structure,...
- Osteon
- An osteonal unit contains concentric lamellae around a vascular canal. Secondary osteons record remodelling; size and shape vary and overlap among species,...
Explained in
- Bone Biology and Forensic SignificanceA cell that produces bone matrix and contributes to mineralisation.