Faculty Collaboration Database

Recovery in skeletal muscle contractile function after prolonged hindlimb immobilization. J Appl Physiol (1985) 1985 Sep;59(3):916-23

Date

09/01/1985

Pubmed ID

4055577

DOI

10.1152/jappl.1985.59.3.916

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-0022407162 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   28 Citations

Abstract

Contractile properties of slow-twitch soleus (SOL), fast-twitch extensor digitorum longus (EDL), and fast-twitch superficial region of the vastus lateralis were determined in vitro (22 degrees C) in rats remobilized after prolonged (3 mo) hindlimb immobilization (IM). For all muscles the muscle-to-body weight ratio was significantly depressed by IM, and the ratios failed to completely recover even after 90 days. The contractile properties of the fast-twitch muscles were less affected by IM than the slow-twitch SOL. The IM shortened the SOL isometric twitch duration due to a reduced contraction and half-relaxation time. These parameters returned to control levels by the 14th day of recovery. Peak tetanic tension (Po, g/cm2) declined with IM by 46% in the SOL but showed no significant change in the fast-twitch muscles. After IM the SOL Po (g/cm2) recovered to control values by 28 days. The recovery of Po in absolute units (g) was considerably slower and did not return to control levels until 60 (SOL) to 90 (EDL) days. The maximum shortening velocity was not altered by IM in any of the muscles studied. These results demonstrate that both fast- and slow-twitch skeletal muscles possess the ability to completely recover normal contractile function following prolonged periods of hindlimb IM.

Author List

Fitts RH, Brimmer CJ

Author

Robert Fitts PhD Professor in the Biological Sciences department at Marquette University

MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Animals
Female
Hindlimb
Immobilization
Muscle Contraction
Rats
Rats, Inbred Strains
Time Factors