Fig. (2) Osteoprogenitor differentiation and accompanying gene expression Under the influence of physical, chemical and biological stimuli osteoprogenitor cells can be encouraged to undergo osteogenic differentiation giving rise to osteoblasts. Depending on signaling, osteoblasts can be induced to lay down extracellular matrix and eventually mature into osteocytes or contribute to remodeling by activating osteoclasts to help in resorption of bone.