Which muscles are responsible for lateral rotation of the glenohumeral joint?

The muscles responsible for lateral rotation of the glenohumeral joint include the deltoid (specifically the posterior part), infraspinatus, and teres minor. The infraspinatus and teres minor are both part of the rotator cuff group and play a crucial role in stabilizing and moving the shoulder, specifically in lateral or external rotation. The posterior fibers of the deltoid also assist with this movement when the arm is in certain positions.

In contrast, the supraspinatus primarily aids in shoulder abduction rather than lateral rotation. The subscapularis and pectoralis major are involved in internal rotation, while the latissimus dorsi and teres major also contribute more directly to internal rotation and adduction of the arm. Thus, the correct choice highlights the muscles specifically engaged in the action of lateral rotation, crucial for activities that require such motion in the shoulder joint.