osteoclast

American  

[os-tee-uh-klast] / ˈɒs ti əˌklæst /

noun

1. Cell Biology. one of the large multinuclear cells in growing bone concerned with the absorption of osseous tissue, as in the formation of canals.

2. Surgery. an instrument for effecting osteoclasis.

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osteoclast British  

/ ˈɒstɪəʊˌklæst /

noun

1. a surgical instrument for fracturing bone

2. a large multinuclear cell formed in bone marrow that is associated with the normal absorption of bone

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osteoclast Scientific  

/ ŏs′tē-ə-klăst′ /

1. A specialized bone cell that absorbs bone, allowing for the deposition of new bone and maintenance of bone strength. Osteoclasts secrete enyzmes that dissolve the matrix of old bone tissue and acids that dissolve bone salts, which contain calcium and phosphorus. Except in growing bone, the rate of bone deposition and bone absorption equal each other so that bone mass remains constant. A mass of osteoclasts absorbs bone from the outer surfaces inward for about three weeks. The osteoclasts are then converted into osteoblasts that form new bone to fill in the cavities.

2. See also osteoblast

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Other Word Forms

• osteoclastic adjective

Etymology

Origin of osteoclast

1870–75; osteo- + -clast < Greek klastós broken

Compare meaning

How does osteoclast compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• osteoblast vs. osteoclast

Example Sentences

Researchers also observed fewer osteoclasts -- cells that break down bone -- in the exercise and supplement groups, indicating less bone loss.

From Science Daily

However, PTH induction is also associated with the differentiation of macrophages into osteoclasts, which are specialized cells responsible for bone resorption.

From Science Daily

Osteoblasts and osteoclasts are two types of cells crucial for the maintenance and remodeling of bone tissue.

From Science Daily

The researchers also investigated PEPITEM's effect on osteoclasts and bone resorption.

From Science Daily

Inspired by the traditional efficacy of female ginseng, the team tested the compounds for their impact on the formation of cells called osteoclasts, which facilitate bone loss.

From Science Daily