The desmin network is a determinant of the cytoplasmic stiffness of myoblasts

Abstract

Desminopathies are associated with muscular weaknesses attributed to a disorganisation of the structure of striated muscle that impairs the active force generation. The present study evidences for the first time the key role of desmin in the rheological properties of myoblasts, raising the hypothesis that desmin mutations could also alter the passive mechanical properties of muscles, thus participating to the lack of force build up in muscle tissue.