Advanced Dental Admission Test (ADAT)

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Prepare for the Advanced Dental Admission Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and explanations provided for each question. Strengthen your readiness for success!

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What type of cells are osteoblasts derived from?

Fibroblasts
Chondrocytes
Pericytes
Osteocytes

The correct answer is: Pericytes

Osteoblasts are specialized cells responsible for bone formation, and they originate from a type of cell known as mesenchymal stem cells. Pericytes, which are contractile cells found in the perivascular space, have the ability to differentiate into multiple cell types, including osteoblasts. This versatility allows pericytes to play a critical role in bone development and repair. In contrast, fibroblasts primarily contribute to the formation of connective tissues and do not directly give rise to osteoblasts. Chondrocytes are cartilage cells involved in the formation and maintenance of cartilage rather than bone, and osteocytes are mature bone cells that originate from osteoblasts, thereby indicating a different stage of differentiation rather than a source for osteoblasts. Understanding the origins of osteoblasts is essential in the context of bone physiology and pathology, as well as various treatment approaches for bone-related diseases.