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Osteoclasts

Meaning

Osteoclasts are large, multinucleated cells derived from the monocyte/macrophage lineage responsible for the critical physiological process of bone resorption, dissolving bone mineral and matrix components. Their activity must be precisely balanced by osteoblasts to maintain skeletal integrity, a balance heavily influenced by calcitropic hormones like Parathyroid Hormone ($text{PTH}$) and sex steroids. Imbalance leads directly to conditions like osteoporosis.