Early effects of denervation on isometric and isotonic contractile properties of rat skeletal muscles.
The contractile properties of the fast-twitch m. extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and the slow-twitch m. soleus were examined after 5 days of denervation. An increase in twitch time to peak, twitch half relaxation time and twitch/tetanus ratio was observed. The EDL also showed a moderate decrease in maximal isotonic shortening velocity, which is taken as an indication that the contractile proteins are affected. A fatigue test showed that the EDL became less fatigable and the soleus less fatigue resistant after denervation.
D000818:Animals; D007537:Isometric Contraction; D007551:Isotonic Contraction; D008297:Male; D009119:Muscle Contraction; D009121:Muscle Denervation; D009133:Muscular Atrophy; D005082:Physical Exertion; D051381:Rats; D011919:Rats, Inbred Strains