BIOL 260 Chapter Notes - Chapter 11.1: Cell Membrane, Myocyte, Perimysium
Document Summary
When stimulated by chemical signals, stretch, and other stimuli, muscle cells respond with electrical changes across the plasma membrane: conductivity: stimulation of a muscle cell produces more than a local effect. Local electrical excitation sets off a wave of excitation that travels rapidly along the cell and initiates processes leading to contraction: contractility: muscle cells are unique in their ability to shorten substantially when stimulated. This enables them to pull on bones and other organs to create movement: extensibility: in order to contract, a muscle cell must also be extensible able to stretch again between contractions. When a muscle lengthens, for example during extension of a joint, its collagenous components resist excessive stretching and protect the muscle from injury.
