Osteoclast Vector Illustration

Osteoclasts are specialized cells that are responsible for bone resorption, which is the process of breaking down bone tissue. They are multinucleated cells derived from hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow, specifically from the monocyte macrophage lineage. The primary function of osteoclasts is to remove old or damaged bone tissue during bone remodeling, a process essential for maintaining bone health and integrity. Bone remodeling involves a balance between bone resorption by osteoclasts and bone formation by osteoblasts.