Visualization of neuro- and musculo-skeletal system in the Northern Pike, Esox lucius
Access Type
Open Access
Entry Number
37
Start Date
4-5-2017 12:00 PM
End Date
4-5-2017 1:00 PM
Department
Biology
Abstract
Branching and distribution pattern of nerves often dictates how elaborate and fine the motor control is over skeletal muscle activation in vertebrates. Using the clear-and-staining techniques coupled with gross and micro-dissections, cartilages, bones, and nerves of the cranial neuro- and skeletal anatomy of Northern Pike, Esox lucius, were visualized. The trigeminal nerve (CN V) and facial nerve (CN VII) that innervate cranial and jaw muscles were mapped, with a special focus on jaw muscles such as the adductor mandibulae pars ricto-malaris, pars endoricto-malaris, and pars stegalis, to test the hypothesis regarding form and function, as well as to better understand homology of muscle bundles among fishes. With this we hoped to learn more about nerve distribution’s influence on jaw function.
Faculty Mentor(s)
Takashi Maie, PhD. Assistant Professor of Biology, Lynchburg College
Visualization of neuro- and musculo-skeletal system in the Northern Pike, Esox lucius
Branching and distribution pattern of nerves often dictates how elaborate and fine the motor control is over skeletal muscle activation in vertebrates. Using the clear-and-staining techniques coupled with gross and micro-dissections, cartilages, bones, and nerves of the cranial neuro- and skeletal anatomy of Northern Pike, Esox lucius, were visualized. The trigeminal nerve (CN V) and facial nerve (CN VII) that innervate cranial and jaw muscles were mapped, with a special focus on jaw muscles such as the adductor mandibulae pars ricto-malaris, pars endoricto-malaris, and pars stegalis, to test the hypothesis regarding form and function, as well as to better understand homology of muscle bundles among fishes. With this we hoped to learn more about nerve distribution’s influence on jaw function.