The effect ofTrichinella spiralisandTrichinella pseudospiralison the mechanical properties of mammalian diaphragm muscle

Abstract

SUMMARYThe isometric mechanical properties of diaphragm muscle were studied in mice infected with eitherTrichinella spiralisorTrichinella pseudospiralis. Measurements of muscle stress were taken at 15, 20, 30 and 40 days post-infection. Infected diaphragm muscle showed a significant (P < 0·001) reduction in muscle stress during both twitch and tetanic contractions when compared with muscle from control animals.T. spiraliscaused a significant reduction in resistance to muscle fatigue. The consequences of these changes in muscle function to host pathology are discussed, and related to previous work on the effects ofTrichinellaon host biochemistry and the immune response.