Veterinary myology: recent advances in the structure, function, and applications of the muscular system in animals
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59169/pentaciencias.v8i3.1850Keywords:
skeletal muscle; comparative anatomy; electromyography; diagnostic imaging; transcriptomicsAbstract
Veterinary myology has moved beyond a purely descriptive approach by integrating comparative anatomy, histology, biomechanics, diagnostic imaging, electrophysiology, and omics sciences. However, recent evidence remains fragmented across clinical practice, animal production, forensic pathology, and tissue engineering. This review aimed to analyze advances published between January 2021 and June 2026 on the structure, function, and applications of skeletal muscle in animals and to identify methodological and knowledge gaps that limit translation. A systematic review guided by international reporting standards was conducted in Scopus and PubMed/MEDLINE. Of 74 records identified, 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. The qualitative synthesis was organized into nine themes: comparative anatomy, molecular regulation, functional assessment, diagnostic imaging, clinical applications, regenerative medicine, forensic pathology, animal production, and anatomy education. The findings depict a translational and multidisciplinary field, although marked heterogeneity persists across species, protocols, and outcomes. Further practical progress requires species-specific protocols, validated reference values, longitudinal studies, external biomarker validation, and closer integration of anatomical and functional findings with clinical or production-related outcomes.
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