URL study guide

https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2024-2025/B_MECHADMYO

Course Objective

At the end of this course, the student has detailed knowledge and understanding of the principles of functional morphology and physiology of the muscular system embedded within a connective tissue context as well as of the mechanical load induced adaptations thereof. The student is able to apply and discuss this knowledge with respect to problems and questions related to locomotion, movement, training induced muscle adaptation and orthopeadic interventions.

Course Content

During the course, a critical evaluation is made of the current knowledge of how muscle structure and function are related and how these properties adapt in response to mechanical loading. This involves the subjects indicated below:
- force exertion by sarcomeres, muscle fibers, muscle and muscle tendon
- complexes;
- elasticity;
- functional morphology and determinants of the muscle length
- force
- velocity characteristics;
- heterogeneity in mechanical properties and functional consequences;
- force transmission between muscle fiber, tendon and fascia;
- adaptation of muscle due to growth, immobilization, training and surgical interventions;
- mechanotransduction and cellular signaling in the regulation of adaptation of muscle size.

Teaching Methods

lecture practical tutorial The course consists of a series of lectures and tutorials. In this combination, the relevant topics will be addressed, explored and discussed. One practical is included in which the analysis of gene expression in muscle in reponse to mechanical loading will be introduced.

Method of Assessment

ExamThe assessment consists of:
- written examination (essay questions including calculations)
- 90%;
- practical report
- 10%.

Literature

Lecture notes, book chapters, research articles and review papers whichwill be made available before the course.

Entry Requirements

The student should have basic knowledge and understanding of the muscleanatomy and physiology as well as molecular biology.
Academic year1/09/2431/08/25
Course level3.00 EC

Language of Tuition

  • English

Study type

  • Master