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Multiple Choice
What causes the release of calcium ions into the sarcoplasm from the terminal cisterns during muscle contraction?
A
The depolarization of the T-tubules
B
The hydrolysis of ATP by myosin heads
C
The arrival of an action potential at the neuromuscular junction
D
The binding of acetylcholine to receptors on the sarcolemma
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of a muscle fiber: Muscle fibers contain structures called sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) and T-tubules. The SR stores calcium ions, and T-tubules are invaginations of the sarcolemma that help transmit electrical signals.
Recognize the role of calcium ions: Calcium ions are crucial for muscle contraction as they bind to troponin, causing a conformational change that allows myosin to bind to actin, initiating contraction.
Identify the process of muscle contraction initiation: An action potential travels along a motor neuron to the neuromuscular junction, where it triggers the release of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Examine the role of acetylcholine: Acetylcholine binds to receptors on the sarcolemma, leading to depolarization and the generation of an action potential that travels along the sarcolemma and down the T-tubules.
Connect depolarization to calcium release: The depolarization of the T-tubules triggers the opening of calcium channels in the terminal cisterns of the sarcoplasmic reticulum, releasing calcium ions into the sarcoplasm and facilitating muscle contraction.