MUSCLE CELL Meaning and
Definition
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A muscle cell, also referred to as a myocyte, is a specialized cell found in muscle tissue. It is the primary structural and functional unit responsible for the contraction and movement of muscles in the human body. Muscle cells are grouped together to form muscle fibers, which collectively make up the muscle tissue.
Muscle cells contain unique features that allow them to carry out their specific functions. They are elongated cells with a distinct shape and are rich in contractile proteins, such as actin and myosin. These proteins are responsible for the cells' ability to generate force and movement when stimulated.
One key characteristic of muscle cells is their ability to contract or shorten in response to electrical impulses transmitted from the nervous system. This contraction allows for various bodily movements, ranging from fine motor skills to complex actions like walking or lifting heavy objects. Muscle cells also possess the ability to relax and return to their original state when the electrical impulses cease, allowing for controlled movement and coordination.
Another essential component of muscle cells is their high metabolic activity. They contain numerous mitochondria, which are responsible for energy production through the process of cellular respiration. This enables muscle cells to generate the necessary energy required for their contraction and sustained physical activity.
In summary, muscle cells are specialized cells found within muscle tissue that are responsible for the contraction and movement of muscles. They possess unique structural and functional features, including contractile proteins and high metabolic activity, enabling them to perform their vital role in facilitating bodily movement and coordination.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MUSCLE CELL
- nuscle cell
- kuscle cell
- juscle cell
- myscle cell
- mhscle cell
- mjscle cell
- miscle cell
- m8scle cell
- m7scle cell
- muacle cell
- muzcle cell
- muxcle cell
- mudcle cell
- muecle cell
- muwcle cell
- musxle cell
- musvle cell
- musfle cell
- musclw cell
- muascle cell
Etymology of MUSCLE CELL
The word "muscle" originates from the Latin word "musculus", which means "little mouse". This description can be attributed to the appearance of certain muscles when they contract, resembling little mice moving under the skin. The word "cell" comes from the Latin word "cella", meaning "small room" or "small compartment". In the context of biology, "cell" refers to the structural and functional unit of all living organisms. Therefore, the term "muscle cell" describes the small compartment or unit responsible for the contraction and movement of muscles in the body.
Similar spelling words for MUSCLE CELL
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