Which connective tissue layer surrounds a single skeletal muscle fiber?

Which connective tissue layer surrounds a single skeletal muscle fiber?

• A. Epimysium
• B. Endomysium
• C. Perimysium
• D. Sarcolemma

Answer: (B)

Endomysium surrounds a single skeletal muscle fiber. It’s the innermost connective tissue layer, wrapping each individual fiber just outside the sarcolemma, and it separates fibers from one another. This layer contains a delicate network of reticular fibers and capillaries to nourish the muscle cell, and it helps support signaling and exchange of nutrients. Surrounding groups of fibers is the perimysium, which forms fascicles, and outside that, the epimysium encases the entire muscle. The sarcolemma is the muscle fiber’s own plasma membrane, not a connective tissue sheath.

Endomysium surrounds a single skeletal muscle fiber. It’s the innermost connective tissue layer, wrapping each individual fiber just outside the sarcolemma, and it separates fibers from one another. This layer contains a delicate network of reticular fibers and capillaries to nourish the muscle cell, and it helps support signaling and exchange of nutrients. Surrounding groups of fibers is the perimysium, which forms fascicles, and outside that, the epimysium encases the entire muscle. The sarcolemma is the muscle fiber’s own plasma membrane, not a connective tissue sheath.