Osteoclasts

Osteoclasts are specialized cells in the body that play a crucial role in bone health. Their main function is to break down and resorb bone tissue, a process essential for maintaining bone density and strength. By removing old or damaged bone, osteoclasts help to reshape the skeleton and facilitate the replacement of bone through the activity of another cell type called osteoblasts, which build new bone. This balance between osteoclasts and osteoblasts is vital for preventing conditions like osteoporosis, where bones become weak and brittle.