Myotendinous Junction

The myotendinous junction (MTJ) is the site of connection between tendon and muscle. In this region, the force generated by muscle contraction is transmitted from intracellular contractile muscle proteins to the extracellular connective tissue proteins of the tendon. At the site of connection, tendon collagen fibrils are set within deep processes that are formed on the surface of the muscle cells. The main components of the MTJ extracellular matrix include laminin, integrin, vinculin, fibronectin and talin, which enable a strong connection between the muscle actin filaments and the tendon collagen fibers. Nevertheless, many studies suggest that the MTJ is the weakest element of the muscle-tendon complex, making it susceptible for injury.