Anatomical and functional integrity of the rat mystacial pad (MP) is dependent on
the intrinsic organization of its extracellular matrix. By using collagen
autofluorescence, in the rat MP, we revealed a collagenous skeleton that interconnects
whisker follicles, corium, and deep collagen layers. We suggest that this skeleton
supports MP tissues, mediates force transmission from muscles to whiskers, facilitates
whisker retraction after protraction, and limits MP extensibility.
Anat Rec, 2011. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.