Cells that break down bone are known as what?

Cells that break down bone are known as osteoclasts. These specialized cells are crucial for the process of bone resorption, which involves the degradation of bone tissue. Osteoclasts work by secreting enzymes and acids that dissolve the mineralized matrix of bone, allowing for the release of calcium and phosphorus into the bloodstream. This process is essential for maintaining bone health, regulating blood calcium levels, and facilitating bone remodeling, which is the continuous cycle of bone formation and resorption.

In contrast, chondrocytes are responsible for cartilage formation, osteoblasts are involved in bone formation, and osteocytes are mature bone cells that maintain the bone matrix. Each of these cell types plays a different role in the skeletal system, but osteoclasts specifically focus on breaking down bone tissue. Understanding these distinct functions is important in the field of radiopharmacy and medicine when considering the impact of various treatments on bone health and metabolism.