[Electron microscopic and histochemical studies of the transverse striated musculature of birds after long-term hypokinesia].

Electromicroscopical and histochemical studies of the gastrocnemius muscle has been carried out in 4 months old cockerels of the laying hybrid after hypokinesis lasting 15 and 30 days. It was found that restricted movement resulted in dystrophic changes of myofibrils, enlargement of the sarcoplasmic reticulum and oedem of interfibrillar spaces. Histochemical studies revealed focuses of increased activity of non-specific esterase decreased activity of dehydrogenase of lactic acid and a positive reaction of acid phosphatase.