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Size and location of the motoneuron pool supplying normal and orthotopically transplanted muscles
Abstract:
Following intramuscular placement of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) into the 129ReJ mouse extensor digitorum longus muscle, 15 +/- 1 (S.E.M.) labeled motoneurons were found in the antero-lateral motor column, between the exits of spinal roots L3 and L4. When HRP was placed in 100-day orthotopic whole muscle transplants of the extensor digitorum longus muscle, the location of the motoneurons supplying the graft was similar to that of control muscle; however, the number of motoneurons innervating the grafts was variable and usually reduced (7 +/- 1 S.E.M.).
Insights
Researchers studied motoneurons in mouse extensor digitorum longus muscles and their whole muscle transplants. Muscle transplants showed similar motoneuron locations but a reduced and variable number of innervating motoneurons compared to control muscles.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Muscle Physiology
- Surgical Transplantation
Background:
- Motoneurons are crucial for muscle function.
- Understanding motoneuron innervation is key in muscle transplantation research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the number and location of motoneurons innervating the extensor digitorum longus muscle in mice.
- To compare motoneuron innervation in orthotopic whole muscle transplants versus native muscles.
Main Methods:
- Horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was injected into the extensor digitorum longus muscle of 129ReJ mice.
- HRP was also applied to 100-day orthotopic whole muscle transplants.
- Labeled motoneurons were identified and counted in the antero-lateral motor column.
Main Results:
- In control muscles, 15 ± 1 labeled motoneurons were found between spinal roots L3 and L4.
- In muscle transplants, motoneuron location was similar to controls.
- The number of motoneurons innervating grafts was reduced (7 ± 1) and variable.
Conclusions:
- Motoneuron location appears conserved in whole muscle transplants.
- Whole muscle transplantation leads to a significant reduction and variability in motoneuron innervation.