The role of membrane processes in controlling skeletal muscle function.

The role of membrane processes in the activation of skeletal muscle fibers has been investigated in details recently. It seems very probable that the intramembrane charge movement is the potential sensitive step of the excitation-contraction coupling. Considerable efforts were made to monitor the subsequent steps (SR function, Ca release) using optical methods. Experimental data were presented about the relations existing between charge movement process, Ca release and contraction threshold.