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Muscle cells, also called myocytes, are the basic building blocks of the muscle tissues
in the body. Muscle cells drive our movement and body functions.

These cells are responsible for generating force and movement throughout the body. They
are designed to contract and relax, allowing us to perform a wide range of activities,
from simple gestures to difficult physical tasks.

Understanding the structure and function of muscle cells helps us to understand how our
bodies move and function.

Table of Contents
Types of Muscle Cells
Anatomy and Structure of Muscle Cells
Functions of Muscle Cells
Diseases and Disorders of Muscle Cells
References
Interesting Science Videos

Types of Muscle Cells

Skeletal muscle cells are found attached to bones and play various roles in the body,
such as generating movement, supporting body posture, and regulating body temperature.
They are characterized by their cylindrical shape, striated appearance under a
microscope, and multinucleated structure.
Cardiac muscle cells form the muscular tissue of the heart and are only present in the
heart. They play an important role in circulating blood throughout the body. Cardiac
muscle cells contract involuntarily and are controlled by the autonomic nervous system,
unlike skeletal muscle cells which are under voluntary control.
Smooth muscle cells are found in the lining of hollow organs like the stomach and blood
vessels. Their contractions are also involuntary and are controlled by the autonomic
nervous system. These cells are responsible for involuntary movements such as peristalsis
in the digestive tract and regulating blood flow in blood vessels.
Types of Muscle Cells
Types of Muscle Cells
Anatomy and Structure of Muscle Cells
The cell membrane or the outer covering of the muscle cell is called the sarcolemma. It
controls the movement of substances in and out of the cell.
The cytoplasm of the muscle cell where cellular activities take place is known as
sarcoplasm. It contains the cellular components such as organelles like mitochondria and
cytosol.
Muscle cells contain long, cylindrical structures called myofibrils that are made up of
repeating units called sarcomeres. Sarcomeres are composed of thick and thin filaments
made of myosin and actin proteins.
Muscle cells contain a specialized form of endoplasmic reticulum called the sarcoplasmic
reticulum that is responsible for storing and releasing calcium ions necessary for muscle
contraction.
Transverse (T) tubules are intracellular tubules that penetrate the sarcolemma and wrap
around the myofibrils in skeletal and cardiac muscle. T-tubules help in muscle
contraction by transmitting electrical signals throughout the muscle cell.
Skeletal muscle cells are cylindrical in shape and are striated due to the arrangement of
proteins like actin and myosin. They are multinucleated, containing multiple nuclei

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within each cell. These cells are surrounded by layers of connective tissue and contain
many mitochondria which provide the energy necessary for muscle function.
Cardiac muscle cells are branched and also exhibit a striated appearance like skeletal
muscle cells. However, they are uninucleated, meaning they contain a single nucleus in a
cell. The cells are connected by specialized structures called intercalated discs, which
allow rapid electrical signaling between cells. Cardiac muscle cells are smaller than
skeletal muscle cells but contain abundant mitochondria for energy production.
Smooth muscle cells are spindle-shaped and usually have a single nucleus. These cells are
not striated as seen in skeletal and cardiac muscle. They have a less organized structure
compared to other muscle cells and also contain fewer mitochondria.
Anatomy and Structure of Muscle Cells
Anatomy and Structure of Muscle Cells
Functions of Muscle Cells
The main function of muscle cells is to contract and lead to the movement of body parts.
Skeletal muscle cells are involved in voluntary body movements such as walking, running,
and lifting objects. They work together to maintain posture and stability by supporting
the skeletal framework of the body. Skeletal muscle cells also allow us to communicate
through gestures, speech, and facial expressions.
Smooth muscle cells are involved in involuntary bodily functions such as the passage of
nutrients through the digestive tract. Smooth muscle cells in the walls of the digestive
tract contract to propel food through the digestive system through the process of
peristalsis.
Cardiac muscle cells help to pump blood throughout the body, ensuring circulation and
oxygen delivery to tissues and organs.
Muscle cells also play a role in metabolism by storing and utilizing glucose and fatty
acids for energy during contraction. They contribute to the regulation of blood glucose
levels and lipid metabolism.
Muscle cells can produce cytokines and other immune-related molecules in response to
injury or infection. Muscle cells also contribute to the healing process by contracting
to close wounds and promote tissue repair.
Diseases and Disorders of Muscle Cells
Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic diseases that leads to muscle loss and weakness.
This condition arises due to mutations in specific genes that affect how muscles work.
Common types include Duchenne, Becker, myotonic, congenital, distal, Emery-Dreifuss,
facioscapulohumeral, limb-girdle, and oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophies. Symptoms of
this disorder range from muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and atrophy to heart issues,
breathing difficulties, and intellectual disabilities. While there is no cure, treatments
may include medications, physical therapy, and orthopedic devices that help to manage
symptoms.
Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis are autoimmune diseases of the muscles that especially
affect the skeletal muscles in the shoulders and hips. One of the distinctive features of
dermatomyositis is its cutaneous changes such as rashes and bumps. These skin symptoms
often occur along with muscle inflammation. Polymyositis does not show any visible skin
rashes or changes. This disease involves inflammation of the endomysium. Treatment for
both dermatomyositis and polymyositis usually includes systemic steroids and
immunosuppressant medications to help reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
Myasthenia gravis is another autoimmune disease that affects the neuromuscular junction,
disrupting nerve-muscle communication. It leads to muscle weakness, particularly in
voluntary skeletal muscles. Symptoms include droopy eyelids, blurry vision, difficulty
speaking or swallowing, and muscle weakness that worsens with activity. There is no cure

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for myasthenia gravis, but treatment helps to manage symptoms and may include medications
such as cholinesterase inhibitors and immunosuppressants, physical therapy, and surgery.
Exercise, proper nutrition, and managing stress can also help relieve symptoms.
Rhabdomyolysis occurs when muscles break down and release harmful substances into the
bloodstream. It can occur due to injuries, intense exercise, dehydration, or certain
medications. During rhabdomyolysis, muscle components like potassium, myoglobin, and
phosphate enter the bloodstream, potentially harming the kidneys. Complications may
include kidney damage or failure, electrolyte imbalances, or blood clotting issues.
Symptoms include muscle weakness, soreness, swelling, and dark urine. Treatment includes
IV fluids to flush out toxins, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, dialysis to
support kidney function.
Cardiomyopathy is a disease affecting cardiac muscle, leading to an enlarged or thickened
heart. It results in decreased heart efficiency, potentially leading to heart failure.
Symptoms include abnormal heart rhythms, fluid buildup, and heart valve problems.
Treatment includes lifestyle changes, medications like anticoagulants and
antiarrhythmics, and in serious cases, surgery.

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