A Histological and Qualitative Analysis of Muscle Spindle Density in the Distal Head of M. Extensor Longus Digiti Majoris

A Histological and Qualitative Analysis of Muscle Spindle Density in the Distal Head of M. Extensor Longus Digiti Majoris

Pandya A; Hieronymus T

Journal of Medical Sciences at NEOMED

2022

Inconspicuous muscles in avian taxa have been previously discussed as vestigial remnants, however, evidence has shown that such muscles may hold a function in flight. Further investigations into inconspicuous muscles, such as M. coracotriceps, have demonstrated a muscle spindle density much greater than surrounding muscles. A higher density of muscle spindles suggests a proprioceptive function during flight. We investigated another diminutive muscle that may bear a similar function, the distal head of M. extensor longus digiti majoris (ED). Studies included a qualitative histological analysis comparing the density of muscle spindles in the ED to the adjacent proximal head of the M. extensor longus digiti majoris (EP) in 15 total samples excised from Columba livia (rock pigeon) and Gallus gallus (jungle fowl). EP is a functional muscle that serves as an osteo-pulley for the major digit, which we analyzed the ED against. Based on our qualitative histological analysis of ED, this muscle does not demonstrate a greater muscle spindle density compared to the EP. Although further research of this muscle in other Avian species may be necessary to discern its function, our research demonstrates no evidence of a proprioceptive function.

Avian Species; Histology; Muscle Spindles; Flight

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