Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 25, 2026

Tissue Triage and Freezing for Models of Skeletal Muscle Disease
Published on: July 15, 2014
Is human skeletal muscle capillary supply modelled according to fibre size or fibre type?
S K Ahmed1, S Egginton, P M Jakeman
1Department of Physiology, University of Birmingham, UK.
Abstract:
Analysis of muscle supply usually relies on estimating either the numerical capillary to fibre ratio or capillary density. Both indices are scale dependent, i.e. they vary with fibre size. We have examined the use of an alternative approach based on the anatomical supply area of individual capillaries, which allows the calculation of a local capillary to fibre ration or density based on area, rather than number of fibres. The results suggest that, in human skeletal muscle, capillary supply is primarily scaled according to fibre size, and is relatively independent of fibre type.
Related Concept Videos
Classification of Skeletal Muscle Fibers
Slow-Twitch Muscle Fibers
Slow oxidative, muscle fibers appear red due to large numbers of capillaries and high levels of...
Microscopic Anatomy of Skeletal Muscles
The muscle sarcolemma is a plasma membrane enclosing each muscle cell that conducts electrical signals called action potentials. The sarcolemma extends into the cell to form T-tubules, ensuring the neural impulses are uniformly distributed across the entire muscle...
Types of Skeletal Muscle Fibers
Fast-twitch fibers
Fast-twitch fibers, or Type II fibers, are designed for quick, powerful bursts of speed and strength. They reach peak tension within approximately 0.01 seconds following stimulation. Characterized by a large diameter and densely packed myofibrils, these fibers contain...
Structure and Organization of Smooth Muscles
Structure of smooth muscle cell
Smooth muscle cells are spindle-shaped with tapering ends and a...
Fascicle Arrangement in Skeletal Muscles
The four primary types of muscle based on fascicle arrangement are:
Capillaries and Their Types

