The Composition, Development, and Regeneration of Neuromuscular Junctions.
The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is the specialized site that connects the terminal of a motor neuron axon to skeletal muscle. As a synapse NMJ integrity is essential for transducing motor neuron signals that initiate skeletal muscle contraction. Many diseases and skeletal muscle aging are linked to impaired NMJ function and the associated muscle wasting. In this chapter we review the components of an NMJ and, the processes of NMJ development, maturation, and regeneration. Also, we briefly discuss the cellular and molecular mechanisms of NMJ decline in the context of disease and aging.
['Liu|Wenxuan|W|', 'Chakkalakal|Joe V|JV|']
D000818:Animals D006801:Humans D008954:Models, Biological D009119:Muscle Contraction D024510:Muscle Development D018482:Muscle, Skeletal D009135:Muscular Diseases D009469:Neuromuscular Junction D012038:Regeneration D013569:Synapses
Regeneration Motor neuron Skeletal muscle Synapse Aging Congenital myasthenia syndrome Myasthenia gravis Myogenesis Neuromuscular disorders Sarcopenia Satellite cells Stem cells