Ameloblasts
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Overview
Ameloblasts are cells in the enamel organ which forms the tooth. They secrete enamel.
Properties
Epithelial cells line the inner surface of the enamel organ. Ameloblasts are derived from epithelium and form a single layer of very long columnar cells that are hexagonal in cross section. They have elongated, basally sited nuclei. They synthesise enamel which forms the crown of each tooth. They maintain connections with the newly synthesised enamel through cellular projections called Thomes' fibres.
Enamel is acellular so once the connection with the ameloblasts via the Thomes' fibres is lost (upon eruption), the enamel matrix cannot be remodelled.