Desmin integrates the three-dimensional mechanical properties of muscles

摘要: Striated muscle is a linear motor whose properties have been defined in terms of uniaxial structures. The question addressed here what contribution made to the this by extramyofilament cytoskeletal structures that are not aligned parallel with myofilaments. This arose from observations transverse loads increase force production diaphragm but hindlimb muscle, thereby indicating presence couple longitudinal and diaphragmatic muscle. Furthermore, we find diaphragms null mutants for protein desmin show 1) significant reductions coupling between properties, first time role specific integrating three-dimensional mechanical 2) stiffness viscoelasticity 3) increases tetanic production. Thus serves complex function contributing both passive modulation active structural network. Our finding changes paradigm transmission among cells placing our understanding cytoskeleton context complexity muscles.