ABSTRACT
This chapter explains that the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is the junction between the presynaptic motor neurone and the postsynaptic muscle membrane. It talks about the formation of Ach in the motor neurone and informs that there are two stores of ACh: ‘Active zones’ opposite the ACh receptors for immediate release; and ‘Deep stores’ within the nerve terminal acting as an ACh reserve. The types of ACh receptor at the neuromuscular junction are postjunctional receptors , prejunctional receptors, and extrajunctional receptors. There are two types of skeletal muscle fibre: Red muscle suitable for prolonged contraction (e.g. postural muscles) and have high oxidative capacity, slow metabolism, many mitochondria; the white muscle suitable for rapid skilled movements (e.g. eye movements) and are glycolytic and fatigable. The chapter also talks about disorders of neuromuscular function, muscle contraction disorders, and sphincters.
