Chapter 2 - Basic Principles of Bone Cell Biology

Abstract

This chapter describes the cells of bone, some mechanisms by which they communicate with each other and with neighboring cells in the bone microenvironment, and discusses advances made in bone cell biology that have contributed so much to this current understanding. We have chosen to review findings in older literature since this helps to explain how methods for the study of bone cells were developed, and which of those methods and conclusions withstand the test of time. The historical consideration also shows us how some recent discoveries have resurrected old concepts that were formulated using earlier technologies.