Endomysium

Endomysium

Diagram of skeletal muscle showing the endomysium.

The endomysium is a delicate connective tissue layer that surrounds each individual muscle fiber within a skeletal muscle. It is one of the three layers of connective tissue in muscle, the others being the perimysium and the epimysium.

Structure

The endomysium is composed of a fine network of collagen fibers and is rich in capillaries and nerve fibers. This connective tissue layer provides structural support to the muscle fibers and facilitates the exchange of nutrients and waste products between the muscle fibers and the blood.

Function

The primary function of the endomysium is to provide a supportive framework for the muscle fibers. It also plays a crucial role in transmitting the force generated by the muscle fibers to the tendons, which then move the bones. Additionally, the endomysium helps to maintain the proper alignment of the muscle fibers during contraction and relaxation.

Clinical significance

Damage to the endomysium can occur in various muscle disorders, such as muscular dystrophy and inflammatory myopathies. In these conditions, the integrity of the endomysium is compromised, leading to muscle weakness and dysfunction.

Related pages

• Skeletal muscle
• Muscle fiber
• Perimysium
• Epimysium
• Connective tissue