Int J Sports Med 2000; 21(5): 313-320
DOI: 10.1055/s-2000-3774
Physiology and Biochemistry
Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Modulation of Structural Protein Content of the Myotendinous Junction Following Eccentric Contractions

J. Frenette,  C. H. Côté
  • Laval University Hospital Research Center, Québec, Canada
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2000 (online)

The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that vinculin and talin, two cytoskeletal proteins of the myotendinous junction (MTJ), would be up-regulated following damaging eccentric contractions. Mouse plantarflexor muscles were submitted in situ to three 5 min periods of eccentric contractions. Talin and vinculin content, in vitro contractile properties and MTJ histology were examined at 0, 3, 7, 14, and 28 days post-exercise. The eccentric protocol led to significant decreases in maximum tetanic tension at 0, 3, and 7 days post-protocol. Histological examination did confirm that tissue damage was present at the MTJ where talin and vinculin are highly concentrated. In the type I soleus muscle talin content increased slightly at 7 days post-eccentric protocol compared to SHAM. In the type II plantaris muscle eccentric contraction led to an increase for vinculin and talin contents that was 2 - 3 fold higher than in the soleus; these significant changes were still present 28 days post-exercise. These results show that eccentric contractions can trigger intense protein synthesis activity at the MTJ most likely related to myofibrillogenesis associated with MTJ remodeling.

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C. H. Côté,Ph.D. 

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