A simple method for isolating osteoblasts from mouse calvaria.

A method for isolating osteoblasts from mouse calvaria, based on the capability of these cells to migrate onto plastic substrates, is reported. The osteoblasts migrate from small (1-2 mm2) regularly cut fragments of calvaria directly onto plastic surface as a continuous cellular sheet. Isolated osteoblasts retain a poligonal shape and the ability to initiate bone matrix formation in presence of B-glycero phosphate. The method is simple and provides a large quantity of osteoblasts ready to be used directly without the need of being detached and reseeded.