Osteoblast

Bone-forming cells responsible for synthesizing and secreting the organic matrix of bone (osteoid), which then becomes mineralized to form new bone tissue.

Key Functions:

• Synthesizes and secretes osteoid, primarily collagen type I.
• Initiates the mineralization of bone matrix.
• Becomes embedded in the bone matrix and differentiates into an osteocyte.

Interacting Systems & Components:

• Osteoprogenitor Cell (develops from)
• Osteocyte (differentiates into)
• Collagen (produces)
• Bone (forms)
• Musculoskeletal System (component of)