Rat Osteoblasts

Bone is a dynamic tissue, which is continuously remodeling by the coordinated actions of osteoclasts and osteoblasts. Osteoblasts originate from immature mesenchymal stem cells; which can also differentiate and give rise to chondrocytes, muscle, fat, ligament and tendon cells. They synthesize and secrete an organic extracellular matrix, an osteoid, whose main component is collagen type I. Osteoid is calcified by osteoblasts and during this process the cells become encased in lacunae within the calcified material and become osteocytes. Rat osteoblasts express protease-activated receptor-1 and vascular endothelial cell growth factor. Studies show that leukemia inhibitory factor can bind to the osteoblast cell surface and induce bone formation both in vitro and in vivo. The balance between osteoblast recruitment, proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis in sutures between cranial bones is essential for calvarial bone formation. Rat Osteoblasts provide an invaluable tool for understanding physiological and pathophysiological relevance in bone function and disease.