Osteoclast

Osteoclasts are derived from the same precursor cells as monocytes. They are cells with many nuclei which can be up to 100µm in size and are formed by fusion. They are found in the bone matrix and form a fossa in mineralised bone, the Howship lacuna, in 1 to 2 weeks, which can be seen under light microscopy.

Osteoclasts destroys bone whereas the osteoblasts reconstructs bone.