Z disc
Z discs is the term used to refer to narrow plate-shaped regions that separate neighboring sarcomeres. Sarcomeres are the small structural units that, arranged end-to-end, form myofibrils, one of the functional components within muscle cells.
The proteins at the junctions between sarcomeres form the "Z-Discs", which are sometimes referred to as "Z Lines" (US English).
Above: Diagram of the unit within a muscle cell that is known as a sarcomere.
Above: Diagram of the unit within a muscle cell that is known as a sarcomere.
The Z Discs are a relatively darker area within the sarcomere that extends along the total length of the thick filaments.
This section consists of short summaries about the
structures that form the muscles of the body.
This list is not exhaustive but is intended to be appropriate for students
of A-Level Human Biology, ITEC courses in massage and related subjects,
and other courses in health sciences. For more general information about muscles see
the pages about:
This section is about the
anatomical structures of muscles.
- Anterior Muscles
- Posterior Muscles
- Facial Muscles
- Muscle Terminology (Definitions)
- 1. Structure of Muscle
- 2. Structure of Muscle Cells
- 3. Muscle Filaments
- 4. Sliding Filament Theory
- 5. Neuromuscular Junction
- 6. Actions at Neuromuscular Junction
- Types of Muscle Contractions
- Muscular Disorders
- Effects of exercise on muscles
