Question

Individual muscle cells are surrounded by what connective tissue?

myofibrils

sarcomere

endomysium

perimysium

sarcolemma

Answer 1

Individual muscle cells are surrounded by endomysium, a layer of connective tissue that contains collagen and reticular fibers, which supply extracellular fluid and nutrients.

Step-by-step explanation:

Individual muscle cells, also known as muscle fibers, are surrounded by a thin layer of connective tissue called the endomysium. This tissue consists of collagen and reticular fibers and serves to house the extracellular fluid and nutrients that support the muscle fiber. These crucial nutrients are provided through the blood circulation to the muscle tissue. Surrounding each muscle fiber is the sarcolemma, a plasma membrane that encloses the sarcoplasm, the cytoplasm of muscle cells. Inside each skeletal muscle, these muscle fibers are organized into bundles known as fascicles, which are in turn enclosed by a connective tissue called perimysium. The larger muscle structure is enveloped by a tougher layer called the epimysium, and together, these connective tissues support muscle fibers, aid in force distribution during muscle contraction, and allow for the passage of nerves and blood vessels to the muscle.

Answer 2

Individual muscle cells are surrounded by a connective tissue called endomysium, which encases each cell within muscle fascicles, further bundled and organized by perimysium and epimysium, connecting to form tendons.

So, the correct answer is option 3.

Step-by-step explanation:

Individual muscle cells, also known as skeletal muscle fibers, are surrounded by a type of connective tissue called endomysium. This thin layer is comprised of collagen and reticular fibers and plays a vital role in providing extracellular fluid and nutrients necessary for the muscle fiber's support.

The hierarchical structure of muscle tissue is such that at each level of bundling, connective tissues surround the components: muscle cells are enveloped by endomysium, bundles of muscle cells (fascicles) are surrounded by perimysium, and the entire muscle is enclosed by epimysium. All these connective tissues extend to form the tendon, which anchors the muscle to bones.

So, the correct answer is option 3.