Summary
A number of recent observations by probe and X-ray methods on the behaviour of crossbridges during contraction is considered in relation to the energetics of the process. It is shown that a self-consistent picture of the crossbridge cycle, compatible with these observations and involving strongly and weakly attached crossbridges, can be obtained providing that the tension-generating part of the crossbridge stroke is only about 40 Å i.e. about one-third of the usually accepted value. The myosin head subunits in the tension-generating bridges could have a configuration close to that of rigor. A mechanism is suggested whereby rapid tension recovery after quick releases up to 120 Å could still be produced by such a system.
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Huxley, H.E., Kress, M. Crossbridge behaviour during muscle contraction. J Muscle Res Cell Motil 6, 153–161 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00713057
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00713057