Quantitative ultrastructural evaluation of satellite cells in soleus muscle from rats kept in hypokinesia.

The aim of the present study is a morphometric, ultrastructural evaluation of satellite cells (SC) derived from the soleus muscle (SOL) of rats exposed to conditions of hypokinesia for a period of 7 or 21 days. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of 320 electron micrographs of SC from each group was carried out. After 7 and 21 days of immobilization, profiles of the SC, in contrast to the control group, had a lower mean surface area, had a cylindrical shape, and exhibited more folded membrane.

Morphometric analysis of satellite cells in rat skeletal muscles: soleus and extensor digitorum longus.

Satellite cells (SC) are present in all types of skeletal muscles. They can exhibit DNA replication and mitotic divisions throughout their life. Depending on the kind of muscle, a different number of SC is present.