The Dystrophin-Glycoprotein Complex in the Prevention of Muscle Damage

Figure 3

The dystrophin-glycoprotein complex transmits forces laterally at costameres in muscle. Longitudinal forces generated in sarcomeres are transmitted down myofibrils in muscle and forces are also transmitted laterally to the ECM and neighboring muscle fibers at costameres, at least in part through the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex (DGC). Recent data showing a loss of lateral force transmission in dystrophin-deficient muscle explains how the reduction or improper assembly of the DGC at the lateral membrane may contribute to overall muscle weakness and fragility.