University of Oregon HPHY MISC EB Unit 2A Human Physiology External Brain
Unit 2A: Muscle Physiology
Hint: Check out Chapter 7.2 (p244-245) and Chapter 8.1 (p252-256), 8.2 (p256-261) in
Sherwood 9th edition
Source: Sherwood, Lauralee. From Cells to Systems. 9th ed., Cengage Learning, 2016
1. We’ve discussed synaptic transmission in general. Now we’ll examine a specific
example at the neuromuscular junction (Chapter 7.2 p 244-246)
A. What is the motor end plate and what is an end-plate potential?
The motor end plate is the portion of the motor neuron where synaptic knobs
meet and release ACh. The end plate potential is the potential created by ACh
binding to the ligand gated channels and influx of sodium at the motor end plate.
B. What neurotransmitter and type of receptors are found at the neuromuscular junction?
The neurotransmitter found at the neuromuscular junction is ACh. The receptors
are chemically gated non-specific cation channels.
C. Does the muscle fiber need to have summated graded potentials in order to generate an
action potential? Briefly explain (hint: consider EPP vs EPSP/IPSP)
No. An End Plate Potential (EPP) can propagate an action potential from a single
nerve cell.
2. Your goal is to understand the basic location and function of the elements within the
muscles contractile unit listed below. Check out Chapter 8.1 (p252-256) and 8.2 (p256-261)