Download – Neuromuscular Junction Physiology

The neuromuscular junction is made up of a motor neurone and a motor endplate with a synaptic cleft or junctional gap dividing them. It is critical in the production of skeletal muscle contraction. An understanding of the structure and physiology of the neuromuscular junction is essential for the safe use of muscle relaxant drugs used in anaesthesia and intensive care, and for understanding pathological states affecting the neuromuscular junction.

Clare Ackroyd, Carl Gwinnutt*
*Correspondence Email: carl.gwinnutt@srht.nhs.uk