Helix Structure in Tendon (IMAGE)

Queen Mary University of London

Helix Structure in Tendon

Caption

This is the scanning electron microscopy image showing helix structure in a tendon fascicle -- the subunit that makes up a tendon. Researchers from Queen Mary University of London have shown that the helix structure enables tendons to stretch and recover. Repetitive loading causes the fascicles to unwind and be less effective, triggering them to become damaged or leading to injury. The researchers also noted that aging affects the helix structure, making aged tendons more prone to injury.

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Queen Mary University of London

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