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Myocyte Hypertrophy

Meaning

Myocyte Hypertrophy is a specific biological adaptation process defined by the significant enlargement of individual muscle cells, known as myocytes, which results in a measurable increase in the overall size of the muscle tissue without any corresponding increase in the total cell number. This physiological response is most often induced by a chronically increased mechanical workload or by potent hormonal and growth factor signaling. While it is a clinically desirable outcome in skeletal muscle for enhanced strength and function, its occurrence in cardiac muscle can often be a pathological sign indicative of chronic stress, hypertension, or underlying disease.