Which type of cells produce the organic bone matrix?

• A. Osteocytes
• B. Osteoclasts
• C. Osteoblasts
• D. Lining cells

Answer: (C)

Osteoblasts are the primary cells responsible for producing the organic component of the bone matrix, which is mainly composed of collagen fibers and other proteins. These cells play a crucial role in bone formation through the synthesis and secretion of osteoid, the unmineralized bone matrix. Once the osteoid undergoes mineralization, it becomes part of the rigid structure of bone.

Osteocytes, although important in the maintenance of bone tissue and the regulation of bone remodeling, do not produce the organic matrix; instead, they are derived from osteoblasts that become trapped within the matrix they helped create. Osteoclasts are specialized cells responsible for bone resorption; they break down bone tissue, which is essential for bone remodeling but does not contribute to the production of the bone matrix. Lining cells are flat cells that cover the bone surface and are thought to play a role in the maintenance of bone tissue but are not directly involved in the formation of the organic matrix.

Thus, osteoblasts are the correct choice as they are directly involved in synthesizing the organic bone matrix, making them essential for bone growth and repair.