Costamere

Costamere

The Costamere is a component of the cell that connects the sarcomere, the basic unit of muscle contraction, to the cell membrane. It is found in striated muscle and plays a crucial role in force transmission and muscle integrity.

Structure

The costamere is composed of several key proteins, including dystrophin, vinculin, and integrin. These proteins form a complex that links the cytoskeleton of the muscle cell to the extracellular matrix through the cell membrane.

Function

The primary function of the costamere is to transmit the force generated by the sarcomere during muscle contraction to the extracellular matrix. This allows the muscle cell to change shape and move. In addition, the costamere also plays a role in maintaining the structural integrity of the muscle cell.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the genes encoding the proteins of the costamere can lead to various muscular dystrophies. For example, mutations in the dystrophin gene can cause Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Becker's muscular dystrophy. These diseases are characterized by progressive muscle weakness and degeneration.

See also

• Sarcomere
• Dystrophin
• Muscular dystrophy

References

Costamere Resources
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