Bone is continuously remodeled through a coupled process of bone resorption and formation.
Bone is continuously remodeled through a coupled process of bone resorption and formation.
During bone resorption, osteoclasts attach to the mineralized bone matrix and excavate small pits on the bone surface, releasing bone collagen and minerals in the circulation.
Cross-linked N-telopeptides (NTx) are released into the bloodstream during osteoclastic activity.
During bone formation, osteoblasts are recruited to the newly resorbed areas on the bone where they deposit new collagen.
When resorption and formation are in balance, there is no net change in bone mass. After a resting phase during which the bone is mineralized, the remodeling cycle begins again.