🏥 USMLE Exam Prep

Osteoclasts are responsible for:

A Bone formation
B Bone resorption — breaking down bone tissue to release minerals into the bloodstream
C Cartilage production
D Muscle attachment

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

Osteoclasts: large multinucleated cells derived from monocyte/macrophage lineage. Secrete acid and enzymes to resorb bone. Regulated by RANK-RANKL-OPG system. Overactivity → osteoporosis. Bisphosphonates inhibit osteoclasts.

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