What type of cells are primarily responsible for the resorption of bone?

The cells primarily responsible for the resorption of bone are osteoclasts. Osteoclasts are specialized cells that break down bone tissue. They do this by secreting acids and enzymes that dissolve the mineral components of the bone matrix, allowing for the release of stored minerals like calcium and phosphorous back into the bloodstream. This process is crucial for maintaining the balance of calcium in the body and plays a vital role in bone remodeling, which is the ongoing replacement of old bone tissue with new bone tissue.

In contrast, osteoblasts are responsible for bone formation, as they synthesize new bone matrix and facilitate mineralization. Osteocytes, on the other hand, are mature bone cells that maintain the bone matrix and communicate with other bone cells to regulate the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Myocytes, which are muscle cells, are not involved in bone resorption. Therefore, osteoclasts are essential for the process of bone resorption, making them the correct answer in this context.