Morphological Evidence for a Unique Neuromuscular Functional Unit of the Human Vocalis Muscle

Tracicaru RV, Bräuer L, Döllinger M, Schicht M, Tillmann B, Hînganu D, Hristian L, Hînganu MV, Paulsen F (2024)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2024

Journal

Book Volume: 25

Article Number: 11916

Journal Issue: 22

DOI: 10.3390/ijms252211916

Abstract

Human vocalization is a complex process that is still only partially understood. Previous studies have suggested the possibility of a localized neuromuscular network of the larynx. Here we investigate this structure in human dissection specimens using multiple immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In the area of the pars interna of the thyroarytenoid muscle, muscle fibers are present that are clearly differentiated from skeletal or cardiac muscle cells and show an intermediate ultrastructure. In addition, intramuscular neurons are present that are detectable by both electron and fluorescence microscopy and may have a sensory function in a local neuronal network. Also, several types of sensory and motor synapses are detectable and distributed throughout the pars interna of the thyroarytenoid muscle, with multisynaptic muscle fibers being a common feature. These findings suggest the existence of a previously unrecognized type of muscle fiber coupled to an intramuscular neuronal network, the presence of which could explain functional peculiarities at the laryngeal level.

Authors with CRIS profile

Involved external institutions

Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy / Universitatea de Medicină și Farmacie "Grigore T. Popa" (UMF Iași) Romania (RO) Universitatea Tehnică "Gheorghe Asachi" / Gheorghe Asachi Technical University Romania (RO)

How to cite

APA:

Tracicaru, R.V., Bräuer, L., Döllinger, M., Schicht, M., Tillmann, B., Hînganu, D.,... Paulsen, F. (2024). Morphological Evidence for a Unique Neuromuscular Functional Unit of the Human Vocalis Muscle. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25(22). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252211916

MLA:

Tracicaru, Rareș Vasile, et al. "Morphological Evidence for a Unique Neuromuscular Functional Unit of the Human Vocalis Muscle." International Journal of Molecular Sciences 25.22 (2024).

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