Muscle Tissue and Types of Muscles

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to muscle types, their structures, functions, and interrelations as outlined in the lecture notes.

What are the three main types of muscle tissue?

Skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle.

Where is cardiac muscle tissue found?

Only in the heart.

What is the primary function of cardiac muscle?

To pump blood through the system of blood vessels.

What type of muscle tissue is primarily responsible for movement in the digestive system?

Smooth muscle.

What is peristalsis?

The wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

What are the two types of muscles that control urinary functions?

Skeletal muscles and smooth muscles.

What is the role of skeletal muscles?

To move bones and maintain posture.

What is an agonist muscle?

The muscle that contracts to produce a movement.

What is an antagonist muscle?

The muscle that relaxes during the contraction of the agonist.

How are muscles classified by their function?

They are classified as flexors, extensors, abductors, and rotators.

What is the function of tendons?

To attach muscles to bones.

What does the term 'myofibrils' refer to?

The contractile structures within muscle cells.

What is the sarcoplasmic reticulum?

The smooth endoplasmic reticulum in muscle cells, responsible for calcium storage.

What is the importance of myoglobin in muscle cells?

It stores oxygen, enabling muscles to produce energy during activity.

What are myofilaments?

Protein structures in muscle cells that consist of thick and thin filaments.

What is a triad in muscle cells?

A structure consisting of two terminal cisternae and one T tubule.

What is the relationship between muscle fibers and muscle contraction?

Muscle fibers contain myofibrils, which contract to allow movement.

What is the primary role of smooth muscle tissue?

To facilitate movement within hollow organs and regulate blood flow.

What is the significance of skeletal muscle names like "pectoralis major"?

They often indicate the muscle's location or function.

What structural feature is unique to muscle cells?

Muscle cells have multiple nuclei.

How is energy produced for muscle contraction?

Through the breakdown of glycogen and the use of oxygen stored in myoglobin.

How many major muscle types are referenced in the notes?

Three major types: skeletal, cardiac, and smooth.

What is the role of connective tissue in muscles?

It supports muscle fibers and connects them to bones.

What does the term 'transverse abdominis' refer to?

A muscle layer in the abdomen with fibers oriented horizontally.

How many skeletal muscles are there approximately in the human body?

About 600 skeletal muscles.

What is the role of layers of connective tissue surrounding muscle fibers?

To provide support, protection, and structure to the muscle fibers.