T TUBULE Meaning and
Definition
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A T tubule, also known as a transverse tubule, is a structure found in the muscle cells, specifically in cardiac and skeletal muscle fibers. It is an invagination of the cell membrane or sarcolemma that penetrates into the interior of the muscle cell. The term "T" refers to its transverse orientation, as these tubules run perpendicular to the longitudinal orientation of the muscle fibers.
The main function of T tubules is to facilitate the rapid and synchronized contraction of the muscle fibers. They play a crucial role in the communication between the cell surface membrane and the sarcoplasmic reticulum, a specialized type of endoplasmic reticulum found in muscle cells. The T tubules form a network that connects to the sarcoplasmic reticulum, primarily at points known as triads.
The close association between T tubules and the sarcoplasmic reticulum allows for the efficient propagation of action potentials, which are electrical signals that trigger muscle contraction. When an action potential reaches the T tubules, it causes the release of calcium ions from the sarcoplasmic reticulum into the muscle cell. This calcium influx initiates a series of events that lead to muscle contraction.
In summary, T tubules are specialized structures found in muscle cells that enable the efficient transmission of electrical signals and the release of calcium ions, thereby ensuring rapid and coordinated muscle contraction.
Common Misspellings for T TUBULE
- r tubule
- f tubule
- g tubule
- y tubule
- 6 tubule
- 5 tubule
- t rubule
- t fubule
- t gubule
- t yubule
- t 6ubule
- t 5ubule
- t tybule
- t thbule
- t tjbule
- t tibule
- t t8bule
- t t7bule
- t tuvule
- t tunule
Etymology of T TUBULE
The word "T tubule" comes from the combination of "T" and "tubule".
1. T: The "T" refers to "transverse", which indicates the orientation of these tubules in a crosswise or perpendicular manner to the myofibril structure in muscle cells.
2. Tubule: A "tubule" is a small tube-like structure found in cells. It is derived from the Latin word "tubulus", meaning "a little pipe" or "small tube".
Therefore, "T tubule" specifically refers to the transverse tubules, which are invaginations or inward projections of the cell membrane in muscle cells. They play a crucial role in transmitting electrical impulses deep into the muscle cells, ensuring synchronized contraction of the muscle fibers.
