Excitation of the Golgi tendon organ normally induces
A)contraction of a muscle's extrafusal fibers.
B)relaxation of a muscle's extrafusal fibers.
C)contraction of a muscle's intrafusal fibers.
D)relaxation of a muscle's intrafusal fibers.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Golgi tendon organ is a tension receptor located in the tendons of muscles. When this organ is stimulated due to excessive tension in the muscle, it sends inhibitory signals to the muscle fibers via the spinal cord, leading to relaxation of the extrafusal fibers. Therefore, choice B is the correct answer. Choice A is incorrect because it implies that the Golgi tendon organ induces contraction, which is not the case. Choice C is incorrect because the Golgi tendon organ is not involved in the contraction of intrafusal fibers. Choice D is also incorrect because the Golgi tendon organ does not induce relaxation of intrafusal fibers.

Excitation of the Golgi Tendon Organ Normally Induces