Motor end plate
Motor End Plate
The Motor End Plate (pronounced: mo-tor end plate), also known as the neuromuscular junction or myoneural junction, is a specialized synapse where a motor neuron communicates with a skeletal muscle cell.
Etymology
The term "Motor End Plate" is derived from its function and structure. "Motor" refers to the movement it induces in the muscle, "End" signifies its terminal position on the motor neuron, and "Plate" describes its flat, plate-like appearance.
Definition
The Motor End Plate is the highly specialized area of muscle fiber plasma membrane where the terminal of a motor neuron establishes synaptic contact. It is the site where nerve impulses are transmitted from the motor neuron to the skeletal muscle to initiate muscle contraction.
Structure
The Motor End Plate consists of the presynaptic terminal of the motor neuron, the synaptic cleft, and the postsynaptic membrane of the muscle fiber. The presynaptic terminal contains synaptic vesicles that store neurotransmitters, primarily acetylcholine. The postsynaptic membrane, also known as the sarcolemma, contains receptors for these neurotransmitters.
Function
The primary function of the Motor End Plate is to convert the electrical signal (nerve impulse) from the motor neuron into a chemical signal to stimulate muscle contraction. This is achieved through the release of acetylcholine from the presynaptic terminal, which binds to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane, triggering an action potential in the muscle fiber.
Related Terms
- Motor Neuron: A type of nerve cell that transmits impulses from the central nervous system to effectors such as muscles.
- Skeletal Muscle: A type of muscle tissue that is attached to bones and is responsible for voluntary movements.
- Synapse: The junction between two nerve cells, where impulses pass by diffusion of a neurotransmitter.
- Acetylcholine: A neurotransmitter in the peripheral and central nervous system that triggers muscle contraction and stimulates the excretion of certain hormones.
- Sarcolemma: The fine transparent tubular sheath that envelops the fibers of skeletal muscles.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Motor end plate
- Wikipedia's article - Motor end plate
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