Skeletal muscle explants: ex-vivo models to study cellular behavior in a complex tissue environment

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Cell Biology
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Skeletal muscle tissue explants have been utilized for approximately 100 years.
• These cultures preserve complex tissue architecture, enabling precise manipulation and measurement.
• They have been instrumental in discovering mechanisms regulating muscle contractility, metabolism, and regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the two primary models of skeletal muscle explant: isolated myofiber and intact muscle.
• To synthesize relevant literature focusing on the challenges and capabilities of each model.
• To discuss impactful past, current, and future applications of muscle explant models.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis.
• Focus on unique challenges and capabilities of isolated myofiber and intact muscle explant models.
• Discussion of applications in muscle physiology research.

Main Results:

• Muscle explants have led to seminal discoveries in muscle physiology.
• Both isolated myofiber and intact muscle models offer distinct advantages.
• Novel applications are emerging for these refined experimental systems.

Conclusions:

• Skeletal muscle explant experiments are fundamental to understanding muscle physiology.
• Refined explant models are poised to continue advancing the field.
• These models are crucial for future research into muscle function and dysfunction.