An action potential in the motor end plate rapidly spreads to the central portions of a muscle cell by means of the

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rapid spread of an action potential from the motor end plate to the central portions of a muscle cell occurs through the transverse tubules (T-tubules). T-tubules are invaginations of the sarcolemma (plasma membrane) that extend deep into the muscle fiber and are in close proximity to the sarcoplasmic reticulum. This close association between T-tubules and the sarcoplasmic reticulum allows for the rapid release of calcium ions (Ca2+) from the sarcoplasmic reticulum in response to an action potential, which is crucial for muscle contraction.

An Action Potential in the Motor End Plate Rapidly Spreads