Molecular genetics in basic myology: A rapidly evolving perspective

Myology has greatly benefited from the recent unification of concepts in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. The interplay between intrinsic and extrinsic factors in determining the physiologic characteristics of individual myofibers has emerged as an important theme. Of special note is the manner in which the study of contractile protein gene structure and expression has contributed to our understanding of the development and ultimate plasticity of the contractile apparatus. As mechanistic models of normal myogenesis achieve increasing sophistication, the opportunities for understanding the pathogenesis of progressive muscle disfunction improve. In this article we review recent progress in basic myology which will be of interest to clinicians studying the heritable neuromuscular disorders.