Ohlsen muscle vocabulary

Front

What is a motor unit?

Back

A motor unit is composed of one motor neuron and several (or even hundreds) of muscle fibers.

Front

What are actin and myosin?

Back

Actin and myosin are examples of myofilaments, which are the basic units of muscle contraction.

Front

What is the function of acetylcholinesterase?

Back

Acetylcholinesterase is an enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine found at the neuromuscular junction.

Front

What is perimysium?

Back

Perimysium is the connective tissue that surrounds fascicles, which are bundles of muscle fibers.

Front

What does extensibility mean in muscle physiology?

Back

Extensibility is the property that allows muscle to stretch without being damaged.

Front

What is a fascicle in muscle anatomy?

Back

A fascicle is a bundle of muscle fibers surrounded by perimysium.

Front

What is the role of myofibrils in muscle cells?

Back

Myofibrils are long, thread-like structures that contain the contractile proteins actin and myosin.

Front

Define neuromuscular junction.

Back

The neuromuscular junction is the synapse or connection point between a motor neuron and a muscle fiber.

Front

What is the function of synapses in muscle contraction?

Back

Synapses transmit signals from motor neurons to muscle fibers, initiating muscle contraction.

Front

What is the difference between contractility and elasticity in muscles?

Back

Contractility is the ability of muscle to shorten and generate force, while elasticity is the ability of muscle to return to its original shape after being stretched.