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Calbindin D-28k-immunoreactivity in rat muscle spindle; a light and electron microscopic study
M Hietanen-Peltola1, M Pelto-Huikko, L Rechardt
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Tampere, Finland.
Brain Research
|May 8, 1992
Summary
Vitamin D-dependent calcium-binding protein (CaBP) was found in rat muscle spindles. This suggests CaBP plays a role in intrafusal muscle fiber function and the muscle spindle
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Muscle Physiology
- Calcium-Binding Proteins
Background:
- Calbindin D-28k (CaBP) is a vitamin D-dependent calcium-binding protein.
- Its precise role in striated muscle, particularly muscle spindles, is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the immunocytochemical localization of CaBP in rat striated muscle.
- To elucidate the potential function of CaBP within muscle spindles.
Main Methods:
- Immunocytochemistry was employed to detect CaBP.
- Electron microscopy was used for high-resolution localization within muscle fibers.
Main Results:
- CaBP immunoreactivity was observed in intrafusal muscle fibers of rat muscle spindles.
- The spindle capsule and nerve sheath also showed occasional CaBP immunoreactivity.
- Electron microscopy revealed diffuse CaBP localization in sarcoplasm, Z-bands, and terminal cisternae of intrafusal fibers.
Conclusions:
- CaBP is present in key components of the muscle spindle apparatus.
- Findings suggest CaBP contributes to maintaining the intracapsular environment and intrafusal muscle fiber function.