Golgi tendon organ

Golgi Tendon Organ

The Golgi tendon organ (GTO) is a proprioceptive sensory receptor organ that is located at the insertion of skeletal muscle fibers into the tendons of skeletal muscle. The Golgi organ can be seen as an "emergency brake" that prevents the muscle from developing too much tension.

Function

The Golgi tendon organ measures the tension that is put on a tendon, which is helpful to prevent damage to the muscle in situations of excessive force. When the tension is too high, the Golgi organ inhibits the muscle from contracting and producing force. This is known as the inverse myotatic reflex.

Structure

The Golgi tendon organ is connected to a single afferent nerve fiber. The body of the organ is made up of strands of collagen that are connected at one end to the muscle fibers and at the other end to the tendon. When the muscle contracts, the collagen fibers are pulled, which stimulates the nerve endings, creating an action potential.

Clinical significance

Damage to the Golgi tendon organ can result in a loss of proprioception, which can lead to a loss of coordination and balance. This can be seen in conditions such as Parkinson's disease and Multiple sclerosis.

See also

• Muscle spindle
• Proprioception
• Inverse myotatic reflex

External links

• WikiMD article on Golgi Tendon Organ

Golgi tendon organ Resources
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