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Abstract

Neuroscience

Stimulated Single Fiber Electromyography (SFEMG) for Assessing Neuromuscular Junction Transmission in Rodent Models

Published: March 8th, 2024

DOI:

10.3791/66452

1NextGen Precision Health, University of Missouri, 2Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Missouri, 3Department of Neurology, University of Missouri, 4Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Missouri

Abstract

As the final connection between the nervous system and muscle, transmission at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is crucial for normal motor function. Single fiber electromyography (SFEMG) is a clinically relevant and sensitive technique that measures single muscle fiber action potential responses during voluntary contractions or nerve stimulations to assess NMJ transmission. The assessment and quantification of NMJ transmission involves two parameters: jitter and blocking. Jitter refers to the variability in timing (latency) between consecutive single-fiber action potentials (SFAPs). Blocking signifies the failure of NMJ transmission to initiate an SFAP response. Although SFEMG is a well-established and sensitive test in clinical settings, its application in preclinical research has been relatively infrequent. This report outlines the steps and criteria employed in performing stimulated SFEMG to quantify jitter and blocking in rodent models. This technique can be used in preclinical and clinical studies to gain insights into NMJ function in the context of health, aging, and disease.

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Keywords SFEMG

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