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Multiple Choice
What causes the release of myosin heads from actin filaments after the power stroke in the sliding filament theory?
A
Hydrolysis of ATP to ADP and inorganic phosphate
B
Release of calcium ions from the sarcoplasmic reticulum
C
Binding of ATP to the myosin head
D
Attachment of myosin heads to new actin sites
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the sliding filament theory: This theory explains how muscles contract by the sliding of actin and myosin filaments past each other, which shortens the muscle fiber.
Identify the role of ATP in muscle contraction: ATP is crucial for muscle contraction and relaxation. It provides the energy needed for the myosin heads to detach from the actin filaments after the power stroke.
Recognize the power stroke: During the power stroke, the myosin head pivots, pulling the actin filament toward the center of the sarcomere. This action requires energy, which is initially provided by the hydrolysis of ATP.
Explain the release of myosin heads: After the power stroke, ATP binds to the myosin head. This binding causes a conformational change in the myosin head, reducing its affinity for actin and leading to the release of the myosin head from the actin filament.
Conclude with the role of ATP binding: The binding of a new ATP molecule to the myosin head is essential for the detachment of the myosin head from the actin filament, allowing the cycle to repeat and the muscle to continue contracting.