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muscle spindle

A Dictionary of Biology | 2004 | 372 words | Copyright

muscle spindle A stretch receptor in vertebrate muscle. Muscle spindles run parallel to normal muscle fibres; each consists of a capsule containing small striated muscle fibres (intrafusal fibres). Muscle spindles are responsible for the adjustment of muscle tone and play an important role in the subconscious maintenance of posture and movement. See also stretch reflex.

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