Sarcolemma
Sarcolemma
Sarcolemma (pronounced: /sɑːrkoʊˈlɛmə/) is a term used in anatomy and physiology to describe the plasma membrane of a muscle cell.
Etymology
The term "sarcolemma" is derived from the Greek words "sarkos" meaning flesh, and "lemma" meaning husk. It was first used in the mid-19th century to describe the thin, transparent, and elastic membrane that envelops the muscle fiber.
Definition
The sarcolemma is the fine transparent tubular sheath which envelops the fibers of skeletal muscles. It is similar in structure to a typical cell membrane, but has additional layers due to the unique requirements of muscle cells. The sarcolemma also plays a crucial role in the conduction of electrical signals which are necessary for muscle contraction.
Related Terms
- T-tubule: These are deep invaginations of the sarcolemma, which allow depolarization of the membrane to quickly penetrate to the interior of the cell.
- Sarcoplasm: This is the cytoplasm of a muscle fiber, enclosed by the sarcolemma.
- Sarcoplasmic reticulum: This is a specialized type of smooth ER that regulates the calcium ion concentration in the cytoplasm of striated muscle cells.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sarcolemma
- Wikipedia's article - Sarcolemma
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