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Han SW, Boldt K, Joumaa V, Herzog W. Characterizing residual and passive force enhancements in cardiac myofibrils. Biophys J 2023; 122:1538-1547. [PMID: 36932677 PMCID: PMC10147830 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2023.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Residual force enhancement (RFE), an increase in isometric force after active stretching of a muscle compared with the purely isometric force at the corresponding length, has been consistently observed throughout the structural hierarchy of skeletal muscle. Similar to RFE, passive force enhancement (PFE) is also observable in skeletal muscle and is defined as an increase in passive force when a muscle is deactivated after it has been actively stretched compared with the passive force following deactivation of a purely isometric contraction. These history-dependent properties have been investigated abundantly in skeletal muscle, but their presence in cardiac muscle remains unresolved and controversial. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether RFE and PFE exist in cardiac myofibrils and whether the magnitudes of RFE and PFE increase with increasing stretch magnitudes. Cardiac myofibrils were prepared from the left ventricles of New Zealand White rabbits, and the history-dependent properties were tested at three different final average sarcomere lengths (n = 8 for each), 1.8, 2, and 2.2 μm, while the stretch magnitude was kept at 0.2 μm/sarcomere. The same experiment was repeated with a final average sarcomere length of 2.2 μm and a stretching magnitude of 0.4 μm/sarcomere (n = 8). All 32 cardiac myofibrils exhibited increased forces after active stretching compared with the corresponding purely isometric reference conditions (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the magnitude of RFE was greater when myofibrils were stretched by 0.4 compared with 0.2 μm/sarcomere (p < 0.05). We conclude that, like in skeletal muscle, RFE and PFE are properties of cardiac myofibrils and are dependent on stretch magnitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong-Won Han
- Institute of Physiology II, Faculty of Medicine, University of Münster, Münster, Germany; Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
| | - Kevin Boldt
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada; Kinesiology Program, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, Canada; Department of Human Health and Nutritional Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Venus Joumaa
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Walter Herzog
- Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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2
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Eccentric muscle contractions: from single muscle fibre to whole muscle mechanics. Pflugers Arch 2023; 475:421-435. [PMID: 36790515 PMCID: PMC10011336 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-023-02794-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Eccentric muscle loading encompasses several unique features compared to other types of contractions. These features include increased force, work, and performance at decreased oxygen consumption, reduced metabolic cost, improved energy efficiency, as well as decreased muscle activity. This review summarises explanatory approaches to long-standing questions in terms of muscular contraction dynamics and molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying eccentric muscle loading. Moreover, this article intends to underscore the functional link between sarcomeric components, emphasising the fundamental role of titin in skeletal muscle. The giant filament titin reveals versatile functions ranging from sarcomere organisation and maintenance, providing passive tension and elasticity, and operates as a mechanosensory and signalling platform. Structurally, titin consists of a viscoelastic spring segment that allows activation-dependent coupling to actin. This titin-actin interaction can explain linear force increases in active lengthening experiments in biological systems. A three-filament model of skeletal muscle force production (mediated by titin) is supposed to overcome significant deviations between experimental observations and predictions by the classic sliding-filament and cross-bridge theories. Taken together, this review intends to contribute to a more detailed understanding of overall muscle behaviour and force generation-from a microscopic sarcomere level to a macroscopic multi-joint muscle level-impacting muscle modelling, the understanding of muscle function, and disease.
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Hessel AL, Kuehn M, Palmer BM, Nissen D, Mishra D, Joumaa V, Freundt J, Ma W, Nishikawa KC, Irving T, Linke WA. The distinctive mechanical and structural signatures of residual force enhancement in myofibers. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.19.529125. [PMID: 36865266 PMCID: PMC9980001 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.19.529125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
In muscle, titin proteins connect myofilaments together and are thought to be critical for contraction, especially during residual force enhancement (RFE) when force is elevated after an active stretch. We investigated titin's function during contraction using small-angle X-ray diffraction to track structural changes before and after 50% titin cleavage and in the RFE-deficient, mdm titin mutant. We report that the RFE state is structurally distinct from pure isometric contractions, with increased thick filament strain and decreased lattice spacing, most likely caused by elevated titin-based forces. Furthermore, no RFE structural state was detected in mdm muscle. We posit that decreased lattice spacing, increased thick filament stiffness, and increased non-crossbridge forces are the major contributors to RFE. We conclude that titin directly contributes to RFE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony L. Hessel
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Muenster; Muenster, Germany
| | - Michel Kuehn
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Muenster; Muenster, Germany
| | - Bradley M. Palmer
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, University of Vermont; Burlington, VT, 05405-1705, USA
| | - Devin Nissen
- BioCAT, Department of Biology, Illinois Institute of Technology; Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dhruv Mishra
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Arizona; Flagstaff AZ, USA
| | - Venus Joumaa
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N1N4, Canada
| | - Johanna Freundt
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Muenster; Muenster, Germany
| | - Weikang Ma
- BioCAT, Department of Biology, Illinois Institute of Technology; Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kiisa C. Nishikawa
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Northern Arizona; Flagstaff AZ, USA
| | - Thomas Irving
- BioCAT, Department of Biology, Illinois Institute of Technology; Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Wolfgang A. Linke
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Muenster; Muenster, Germany
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Poststretch Isometric Contractions of the Hamstrings: Just a Brief Stretch to Achieve Supramaximal Isometric Force. J Appl Biomech 2021; 37:320-326. [PMID: 34271550 DOI: 10.1123/jab.2020-0236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Hamstring strain injuries are common in sport. Supramaximal eccentric or high-intensity isometric contractions are favored in hamstring strain injury prevention. The effect of combining these contraction modes in such prevention programs as a poststretch isometric contraction is unknown. Poststretch isometric contractions incorporate an active stretch and result in greater final isometric force than isometric contractions at comparable joint angles. This study compared torque and muscle activation levels between maximal voluntary isometric contraction and maximal poststretch isometric contractions of the knee flexors. Participants (n = 9) completed baseline maximal voluntary isometric contraction at 150° knee flexion and maximal poststretch isometric contractions at 120° knee flexion actively stretching at 60°/s to 150° knee flexion for final isometric contraction. Torque of the knee flexors and surface electromyography root mean square (sEMGRMS) of biceps femoris long head were simultaneously recorded and compared between baseline and poststretch isometric at 150° knee flexion. Torque was 14% greater in the poststretch isometric condition compared with baseline maximal voluntary isometric contraction (42.45 [20.75] N·m, 14% [22.18%], P < .001) without increase in sEMGRMS of biceps femoris long head (-.03 mV, ±.06, P = .130, d = .93). Poststretch isometric contractions resulted in supramaximal levels of poststretch isometric torque without increased activation of biceps femoris long head.
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Jarvis KJ, Bell KM, Loya AK, Swank DM, Walcott S. Force-velocity and tension transient measurements from Drosophila jump muscle reveal the necessity of both weakly-bound cross-bridges and series elasticity in models of muscle contraction. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 701:108809. [PMID: 33610561 PMCID: PMC7986577 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.108809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Muscle contraction is a fundamental biological process where molecular interactions between the myosin molecular motor and actin filaments result in contraction of a whole muscle, a process spanning size scales differing in eight orders of magnitude. Since unique behavior is observed at every scale in between these two extremes, to fully understand muscle function it is vital to develop multi-scale models. Based on simulations of classic measurements of muscle heat generation as a function of work, and shortening rate as a function of applied force, we hypothesize that a model based on molecular measurements must be modified to include a weakly-bound interaction between myosin and actin in order to fit measurements at the muscle fiber or whole muscle scales. This hypothesis is further supported by the model's need for a weakly-bound state in order to qualitatively reproduce the force response that occurs when a muscle fiber is rapidly stretched a small distance. We tested this hypothesis by measuring steady-state force as a function of shortening velocity, and the force transient caused by a rapid length step in Drosophila jump muscle fibers. Then, by performing global parameter optimization, we quantitatively compared the predictions of two mathematical models, one lacking a weakly-bound state and one with a weakly-bound state, to these measurements. Both models could reproduce our force-velocity measurements, but only the model with a weakly-bound state could reproduce our force transient measurements. However, neither model could concurrently fit both measurements. We find that only a model that includes weakly-bound cross-bridges with force-dependent detachment and an elastic element in series with the cross-bridges is able to fit both of our measurements. This result suggests that the force response after stretch is not a reflection of distinct steps in the cross-bridge cycle, but rather arises from the interaction of cross-bridges with a series elastic element. Additionally, the model suggests that the curvature of the force-velocity relationship arises from a combination of the force-dependence of weakly- and strongly-bound cross-bridges. Overall, this work presents a minimal cross-bridge model that has predictive power at the fiber level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelyn J Jarvis
- Department of Mathematics, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Kaylyn M Bell
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Amy K Loya
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Douglas M Swank
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY, USA
| | - Sam Walcott
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA.
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Chapman ND, Whitting JW, Broadbent S, Crowley-McHattan ZJ, Meir R. Residual Force Enhancement Is Present in Consecutive Post-Stretch Isometric Contractions of the Hamstrings during a Training Simulation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:1154. [PMID: 33525530 PMCID: PMC7908171 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18031154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Residual force enhancement (rFE) is observed when isometric force following an active stretch is elevated compared to an isometric contraction at corresponding muscle lengths. Acute rFE has been confirmed in vivo in upper and lower limb muscles. However, it is uncertain whether rFE persists using multiple, consecutive contractions as per a training simulation. Using the knee flexors, 10 recreationally active participants (seven males, three females; age 31.00 years ± 8.43 years) performed baseline isometric contractions at 150° knee flexion (180° representing terminal knee extension) of 50% maximal voluntary activation of semitendinosus. Participants performed post-stretch isometric (PS-ISO) contractions (three sets of 10 repetitions) starting at 90° knee extension with a joint rotation of 60° at 60°·s-1 at 50% maximal voluntary activation of semitendinosus. Baseline isometric torque and muscle activation were compared to PS-ISO torque and muscle activation across all 30 repetitions. Significant rFE was noted in all repetitions (37.8-77.74%), with no difference in torque between repetitions or sets. There was no difference in activation of semitendinosus or biceps femoris long-head between baseline and PS-ISO contractions in all repetitions (ST; baseline ISO = 0.095-1.000 ± 0.036-0.039 Mv, PS-ISO = 0.094-0.098 ± 0.033-0.038 and BFlh; baseline ISO = 0.068-0.075 ± 0.031-0.038 Mv). This is the first investigation to observe rFE during multiple, consecutive submaximal PS-ISO contractions. PS-ISO contractions have the potential to be used as a training stimulus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil D. Chapman
- School of Health and Human Sciences, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia; (J.W.W.); (S.B.); (Z.J.C.-M.); (R.M.)
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Robina, QLD 4229, Australia
| | - John W. Whitting
- School of Health and Human Sciences, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia; (J.W.W.); (S.B.); (Z.J.C.-M.); (R.M.)
| | - Suzanne Broadbent
- School of Health and Human Sciences, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia; (J.W.W.); (S.B.); (Z.J.C.-M.); (R.M.)
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD 4556, Australia
| | - Zachary J. Crowley-McHattan
- School of Health and Human Sciences, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia; (J.W.W.); (S.B.); (Z.J.C.-M.); (R.M.)
| | - Rudi Meir
- School of Health and Human Sciences, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia; (J.W.W.); (S.B.); (Z.J.C.-M.); (R.M.)
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Gattani S, Ju X, Gillgrass T, Bell A, Ayoub A. An Innovative Assessment of the Dynamics of Facial Movements in Surgically Managed Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate Using 4D Imaging. Cleft Palate Craniofac J 2020; 57:1125-1133. [PMID: 32419475 PMCID: PMC7594373 DOI: 10.1177/1055665620924871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Assess facial asymmetry during maximum smile in patients with surgically managed unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP), using a dynamic 3-dimensional (3D) imaging (4-dimensional) system. DESIGN Prospective 2 cohort comparative study. METHODS Twenty-five surgically managed UCLP cases and 75 controls at 8 to 10 years of age were recruited. Facial movements during maximum smile were recorded using video stereophotogrammetry at a rate of 60 3D facial images per second. Maximum smile took approximately 3 seconds and generated 180 3D facial images for the analysis. A generic facial mesh which consists of more than 7000 quasi landmarks was used for the assessment of facial asymmetry at 5 key 3D frames representing the pattern of maximum smile. RESULTS Statistically significant differences were seen regarding the magnitude of facial asymmetry between the UCLP group and the noncleft controls. Higher average asymmetry in the UCLP group was seen in the 3D frame midway between maximum smile and rest (frame 4) followed by the frame at peak expression of maximum smile (frame 3). The average magnitude of nasolabial asymmetry of the control group was within 0.5 mm in comparison with the UCLP cases which was about 1.8 mm. CONCLUSION This study provided for the first time, an objective tool for analysis of the dynamics of muscle movements which provided an unprecedented insight into the anatomical basis of the residual dysmorphology. The research demonstrates the limitations of the primary lip repair in achieving symmetrical results and underpins the required refinements to improve the quality of surgical repair of cleft lip.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shyam Gattani
- Glasgow Dental School, School of Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Xiangyang Ju
- Medical Devices Unit, Department of Clinical Physics and Bioengineering, National Health Service of Greater Glasgow and Clyde, United Kingdom
| | - Toby Gillgrass
- Glasgow Dental Hospital & School, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Aileen Bell
- Oral Surgery, Glasgow University Dental Hospital & School, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Ashraf Ayoub
- Scottish Craniofacial Research Group, Glasgow University Dental Hospital & School, School of Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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Boldt K, Han SW, Joumaa V, Herzog W. Residual and passive force enhancement in skinned cardiac fibre bundles. J Biomech 2020; 109:109953. [PMID: 32807325 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.109953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In skeletal muscle, steady-state force is consistently greater following active stretch than during a purely isometric contraction at the same length (residual force enhancement; RFE). Similarly, when deactivated, the force remains higher following active stretch than following an isometric condition (passive force enhancement; PFE). RFE and PFE have been associated with the sarcomere protein titin, but skeletal and cardiac titin have different structures, and results regarding RFE in cardiac muscle have been inconsistent and contradictory. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine if cardiac muscle exhibits RFE and PFE. Skinned fibre bundles (n = 10) were activated isometrically at a sarcomere length of 2.2 μm and actively stretched by 15% of their length. The resultant active and passive forces were compared to the corresponding forces obtained for purely isometric contractions at the long length. RFE was observed in all fibre bundles, averaging 5.5 ± 2.5% (ranging from 2.3 to 9.4%). PFE was observed in nine of the ten bundles, averaging 11.1 ± 6.5% (ranging from -2.1 to 18.7%). Stiffness was not different between the active isometric and the force enhanced conditions, but was higher following deactivation from the force-enhanced compared to the isometric reference state. We conclude that there is RFE and PFE in cardiac muscle. We speculate that cardiac muscle has the same RFE capability as skeletal muscle, and that the most likely mechanism for the RFE and PFE is the engagement of a passive structural element during active stretching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Boldt
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Human Performance Laboratory, University of Calgary, Canada.
| | - Seong-Won Han
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Human Performance Laboratory, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Venus Joumaa
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Human Performance Laboratory, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Walter Herzog
- Faculty of Kinesiology, Human Performance Laboratory, University of Calgary, Canada
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Tomalka A, Röhrle O, Han JC, Pham T, Taberner AJ, Siebert T. Extensive eccentric contractions in intact cardiac trabeculae: revealing compelling differences in contractile behaviour compared to skeletal muscles. Proc Biol Sci 2019; 286:20190719. [PMID: 31138072 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2019.0719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Force enhancement (FE) is a phenomenon that is present in skeletal muscle. It is characterized by progressive forces upon active stretching-distinguished by a linear rise in force-and enhanced isometric force following stretching (residual FE (RFE)). In skeletal muscle, non-cross-bridge (XB) structures may account for this behaviour. So far, it is unknown whether differences between non-XB structures within the heart and skeletal muscle result in deviating contractile behaviour during and after eccentric contractions. Thus, we investigated the force response of intact cardiac trabeculae during and after isokinetic eccentric muscle contractions (10% of maximum shortening velocity) with extensive magnitudes of stretch (25% of optimum muscle length). The different contributions of XB and non-XB structures to the total muscle force were revealed by using an actomyosin inhibitor. For cardiac trabeculae, we found that the force-length dynamics during long stretch were similar to the total isometric force-length relation. This indicates that no (R)FE is present in cardiac muscle while stretching the muscle from 0.75 to 1.0 optimum muscle length. This finding is in contrast with the results obtained for skeletal muscle, in which (R)FE is present. Our data support the hypothesis that titin stiffness does not increase with activation in cardiac muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Tomalka
- 1 Department of Motion and Exercise Science, University of Stuttgart , Stuttgart , Germany
| | - Oliver Röhrle
- 2 Institute of Applied Mechanics (Civil Engineering), University of Stuttgart , Stuttgart , Germany.,3 Cluster of Excellence for Simulation Technology (SimTech) , Stuttgart , Germany
| | - June-Chiew Han
- 4 Auckland Bioengineering Institute, The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Toan Pham
- 5 Department of Physiology, The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Andrew J Taberner
- 4 Auckland Bioengineering Institute, The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand.,6 Department of Engineering Science, The University of Auckland , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Tobias Siebert
- 1 Department of Motion and Exercise Science, University of Stuttgart , Stuttgart , Germany
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10
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On a three-dimensional constitutive model for history effects in skeletal muscles. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2019; 18:1665-1681. [DOI: 10.1007/s10237-019-01167-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Abstract
Relaxed skeletal muscle has an inbuilt resistance to movement. In particular, the resistance manifests itself as a substantial stiffness for small movements. The stiffness is impermanent, because it forms only when the muscle is stationary for some time and is reduced upon active or passive movement. Because the resistance to movement increases with time at rest and is reduced by movement, this behavior has become known as muscle thixotropy. In this short review, we describe the phenomenon of thixotropy and illustrate its significance in postural control with particular emphasis on human standing. We show how thixotropy came to be unambiguously associated with muscle mechanics and we review present knowledge of the molecular basis of thixotropic behavior. Specifically, we examine how recent knowledge about titin, and about the control of cross-bridge cycling, has impacted on the role of non-cross-bridge mechanisms and cross-bridge mechanisms in explaining thixotropy. We describe how thixotropic changes in muscle stiffness that occur during transitions from posture to movement can be tracked by analyzing physiological tremor. Finally, because skeletal muscle contains sensory receptors, and because some of these receptors are themselves thixotropic, we outline some of the consequences of muscle thixotropy for proprioception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Lakie
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, University of Birmingham , Birmingham , United Kingdom
| | - Kenneth S Campbell
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Kentucky , Lexington, Kentucky
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12
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Nishikawa KC, Lindstedt SL, LaStayo PC. Basic science and clinical use of eccentric contractions: History and uncertainties. JOURNAL OF SPORT AND HEALTH SCIENCE 2018; 7:265-274. [PMID: 30356648 PMCID: PMC6189250 DOI: 10.1016/j.jshs.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Revised: 12/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The peculiar attributes of muscles that are stretched when active have been noted for nearly a century. Understandably, the focus of muscle physiology has been primarily on shortening and isometric contractions, as eloquently revealed by A.V. Hill and subsequently by his students. When the sliding filament theory was introduced by A.F. Huxley and H.E. Huxley, it was a relatively simple task to link Hill's mechanical observations to the actions of the cross bridges during these shortening and isometric contractions. In contrast, lengthening or eccentric contractions have remained somewhat enigmatic. Dismissed as necessarily causing muscle damage, eccentric contractions have been much more difficult to fit into the cross-bridge theory. The relatively recent discovery of the giant elastic sarcomeric filament titin has thrust a previously missing element into any discussion of muscle function, in particular during active stretch. Indeed, the unexpected contribution of giant elastic proteins to muscle contractile function is highlighted by recent discoveries that twitchin-actin interactions are responsible for the "catch" property of invertebrate muscle. In this review, we examine several current theories that have been proposed to account for the properties of muscle during eccentric contraction. We ask how well each of these explains existing data and how an elastic filament can be incorporated into the sliding filament model. Finally, we review the increasing body of evidence for the benefits of including eccentric contractions into a program of muscle rehabilitation and strengthening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiisa C. Nishikawa
- Center for Bioengineering Innovation and Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
| | - Stan L. Lindstedt
- Center for Bioengineering Innovation and Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ 86011, USA
- Corresponding author
| | - Paul C. LaStayo
- Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training, University of Utah, 520 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 86011, USA
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de Brito Fontana H, de Campos D, Sakugawa RL. Predictors of residual force enhancement in voluntary contractions of elbow flexors. JOURNAL OF SPORT AND HEALTH SCIENCE 2018; 7:318-325. [PMID: 30356605 PMCID: PMC6189239 DOI: 10.1016/j.jshs.2018.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2018] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The steady-state increase in muscle force generating potential following a lengthening contraction is called residual force enhancement (RFE). In this study, we aimed to test for differences in torque, electromyographic activity (EMG), and the associated neuromuscular efficiency (NME) between isometric voluntary contractions of elbow flexors preceded and not preceded by a lengthening contraction. The dependence of such differences on (i) stretch amplitude, (ii) the region of the force-length (FxL) relationship where contraction occurs, and (iii) the individual's ability to produce (negative) work during the stretch was investigated. METHODS Sixteen healthy adults participated in the study. Elbow flexor torque, angle, and biceps brachii EMG for purely isometric contractions (reference contractions) and for isometric contractions preceded by active stretches of 20° and 40° were measured at the ascending, plateau, and descending regions of subject-specific FxL curves. All contractions were performed in an isokinetic dynamometer. Two-factor (stretch × FxL region) repeated measures analysis of variance ANOVAs was used to analyze the effect of active stretch on EMG, torque, and NME across conditions. The relationships between mechanical work during stretch-calculated as the torque-angular displacement integral-and the changes in EMG, torque, and NME were analyzed using Pearson correlation. RESULTS In general, torque, EMG, and NME following active stretches differed from the values observed for the purely isometric reference contractions. While although the detailed effects of active stretch on torque and EMG differed between regions of the FxL relationship, NME increased by about 19% for all muscle lengths. Up to 30% of the interindividual variability in torque generating potential change in response to active stretching was accounted for by differences in (negative) work capacity between subjects. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that (i) RFE contributes to "flatten" the elbow flexor torque-angle relationship, favoring torque production at lengths where the purely isometric torques are reduced substantially, and (ii) RFE contributes to a reduction in energy cost of torque production during isometric contractions for the entire operating range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heiliane de Brito Fontana
- Biological Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Campus Reitor João David Ferreira Lima, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Campus Reitor João David Ferreira Lima, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Daiani de Campos
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Campus Reitor João David Ferreira Lima, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Raphael Luiz Sakugawa
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Campus Reitor João David Ferreira Lima, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
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Abstract
A systematic literature search was conducted to review the evidence of residual force enhancement (RFE) in vivo human muscle. The search, adhered to the PRISMA statement, of CINAHL, EBSCO, Embase, MEDLINE, and Scopus (inception-July 2017) was conducted. Full-text English articles that assessed at least 1 measure of RFE in vivo voluntarily contracted human skeletal muscle were selected. The methodologies of included articles were assessed against the Downs and Black checklist. Twenty-four studies were included (N = 424). Pooled Downs and Black scores ranked "fair" ([Formula: see text] [2.26]). RFE was observed in all muscles tested. Joint range of motion varied from 15° to 60°. Contraction intensities ranged from 10% to >95% maximum. Although transient force enhancement during the stretch phase may change with angular velocity, RFE in the subsequent isometric phase is independent of velocity. The magnitude of RFE was influenced by smaller stretch amplitudes and greatest at joint angles indicative of longer muscle lengths. Contraction and activation intensity influenced RFE, particularly during the initial isometric contraction phase of a poststretch isometric contraction. RFE resulted in increased torque production, reduced muscular activation, and enhanced torque production when the neuromuscular system is weakened seen in an aged population.
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15
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang A. Linke
- Institute of Physiology II, University of Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Herz-Kreislaufforschung, Partner Site Göttingen, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
- Cardiac Mechanotransduction Group, Clinic for Cardiology and Pneumology, University Medical Center, 37073 Göttingen, Germany
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16
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Tomalka A, Rode C, Schumacher J, Siebert T. The active force-length relationship is invisible during extensive eccentric contractions in skinned skeletal muscle fibres. Proc Biol Sci 2018; 284:rspb.2016.2497. [PMID: 28469023 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2016.2497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In contrast to experimentally observed progressive forces in eccentric contractions, cross-bridge and sliding-filament theories of muscle contraction predict that varying myofilament overlap will lead to increases and decreases in active force during eccentric contractions. Non-cross-bridge contributions potentially explain the progressive total forces. However, it is not clear whether underlying abrupt changes in the slope of the nonlinear force-length relationship are visible in long isokinetic stretches, and in which proportion cross-bridges and non-cross-bridges contribute to muscle force. Here, we show that maximally activated single skinned rat muscle fibres behave (almost across the entire working range) like linear springs. The force slope is about three times the maximum isometric force per optimal length. Cross-bridge and non-cross-bridge contributions to the muscle force were investigated using an actomyosin inhibitor. The experiments revealed a nonlinear progressive contribution of non-cross-bridge forces and suggest a nonlinear cross-bridge contribution similar to the active force-length relationship (though with increased optimal length and maximum isometric force). The linear muscle behaviour might significantly reduce the control effort. Moreover, the observed slight increase in slope with initial length is in accordance with current models attributing the non-cross-bridge force to titin.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Tomalka
- Institute of Sport and Movement Science, University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 28, 70569 Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
| | - Christian Rode
- Department of Motion Science, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, 07749 Jena, Thuringia, Germany
| | - Jens Schumacher
- Institute of Mathematics/Stochastics, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, 07749 Jena, Thuringia, Germany
| | - Tobias Siebert
- Institute of Sport and Movement Science, University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 28, 70569 Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
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17
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Tomalka A, Borsdorf M, Böl M, Siebert T. Porcine Stomach Smooth Muscle Force Depends on History-Effects. Front Physiol 2017; 8:802. [PMID: 29093684 PMCID: PMC5651592 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 09/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The stomach serves as food reservoir, mixing organ and absorption area for certain substances, while continually varying its position and size. Large dimensional changes during ingestion and gastric emptying of the stomach are associated with large changes in smooth muscle length. These length changes might induce history-effects, namely force depression (FD) following active muscle shortening and force enhancement (FE) following active muscle stretch. Both effects have impact on the force generating capacity of the stomach, and thus functional relevance. However, less is known about history-effects and active smooth muscle properties of stomach smooth muscle. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate biomechanical muscle properties as force-length and force-velocity relations (FVR) of porcine stomach smooth muscle strips, extended by the analysis of history-effects on smooth muscle force. Therefore, in total n = 54 tissue strips were dissected in longitudinal direction from the ventral fundus of porcine stomachs. Different isometric, isotonic, and isokinetic contraction protocols were performed during electrical muscle stimulation. Cross-sectional areas (CSA) of smooth muscles were determined from cryo-histological sections stained with Picrosirius Red. Results revealed that maximum smooth muscle tension was 10.4 ± 2.6 N/cm2. Maximum shortening velocity (Vmax) and curvature factor (curv) of the FVR were 0.04 ± 0.01 [optimum muscle length/s] and 0.36 ± 0.15, respectively. The findings of the present study demonstrated significant (P < 0.05) FD [up to 32% maximum muscle force (Fim)] and FE (up to 16% Fim) of gastric muscle tissue, respectively. The FE- and FD-values increased with increasing ramp amplitude. This outstanding muscle behavior is not accounted for in existing models so far and strongly supports the idea of a holistic reflection of distinct stomach structure and function. For the first time this study provides a comprehensive set of stomach smooth muscle parameters including classic biomechanical muscle properties and history-dependent effects, offering the possibility for the development and validation of computational stomach models. Furthermore, this data set facilitates novel insights in gastric motility and contraction behavior based on the re-evaluation of existing contractile mechanisms. That will likely help to understand physiological functions or dysfunctions in terms of gastric accommodation and emptying.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Tomalka
- Department of Sport and Motion Science, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Mischa Borsdorf
- Department of Sport and Motion Science, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Markus Böl
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Solid Mechanics, Braunschweig University of Technology, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Tobias Siebert
- Department of Sport and Motion Science, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
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18
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Heidlauf T, Klotz T, Rode C, Siebert T, Röhrle O. A continuum-mechanical skeletal muscle model including actin-titin interaction predicts stable contractions on the descending limb of the force-length relation. PLoS Comput Biol 2017; 13:e1005773. [PMID: 28968385 PMCID: PMC5638554 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1005773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Revised: 10/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Contractions on the descending limb of the total (active + passive) muscle force-length relationship (i. e. when muscle stiffness is negative) are expected to lead to vast half-sarcomere-length inhomogeneities. This is however not observed in experiments-vast half-sarcomere-length inhomogeneities can be absent in myofibrils contracting in this range, and initial inhomogeneities can even decrease. Here we show that the absence of half-sarcomere-length inhomogeneities can be predicted when considering interactions of the semi-active protein titin with the actin filaments. Including a model of actin-titin interactions within a multi-scale continuum-mechanical model, we demonstrate that stability, accurate forces and nearly homogeneous half-sarcomere lengths can be obtained on the descending limb of the static total force-length relation. This could be a key to durable functioning of the muscle because large local stretches, that might harm, for example, the transverse-tubule system, are avoided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Heidlauf
- Institute of Applied Mechanics (CE), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
- Stuttgart Research Centre for Simulation Technology (SRC SimTech), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Thomas Klotz
- Institute of Applied Mechanics (CE), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
- Stuttgart Research Centre for Simulation Technology (SRC SimTech), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Christian Rode
- Institute of Motion Science, Friedrich-Schiller-University, Jena, Germany
| | - Tobias Siebert
- Department of Sport and Motion Science, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Oliver Röhrle
- Institute of Applied Mechanics (CE), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
- Stuttgart Research Centre for Simulation Technology (SRC SimTech), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
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19
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Oxygen consumption of gastrocnemius medialis muscle during submaximal voluntary isometric contractions with and without preceding stretch. Sci Rep 2017; 7:4674. [PMID: 28680113 PMCID: PMC5498657 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-04068-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
After an active muscle stretch, maintaining a certain amount of force in the following isometric phase is accompanied by less muscle activation compared to an isometric contraction without preceding active stretch at the corresponding muscle length. This reduced muscle activation might be related to reduced metabolic costs, such as the oxidative metabolism. Hence, the aim of this study was to clarify if mechanisms associated with stretch-induced activation reduction (AR) also influence oxygen consumption of voluntary activated human muscles after active stretch. Plantarflexion torque of 20 subjects was measured during 1) purely isometric and 2) active stretch contractions (26°, 60°/s), at a submaximal torque level of 30% MVC. Oxygen consumption (m\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$$\dot{\rm{V}}$$\end{document}V·O2) of gastrocnemius medialis (GM) was estimated by near-infrared spectroscopy while applying arterial occlusion. Since the overall group did not show AR at GM after active stretch (p > 0.19), a subgroup was defined (n = 10) showing AR of 13.0 ± 10.3% (p = 0.00). However, for both purely isometric and active contractions m\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$$\dot{\rm{V}}$$\end{document}V·O2 was the same (p = 0.32). Therefore, AR triggered by active stretch did not affect m\documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$$\dot{\rm{V}}$$\end{document}V·O2 of active human muscle.
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20
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Lindstedt S, Nishikawa K. Huxleys’ Missing Filament: Form and Function of Titin in Vertebrate Striated Muscle. Annu Rev Physiol 2017; 79:145-166. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-physiol-022516-034152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stan Lindstedt
- Center for Bioengineering Innovation, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona 86011-4185
| | - Kiisa Nishikawa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona 86011-4185;
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21
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Hessel AL, Lindstedt SL, Nishikawa KC. Physiological Mechanisms of Eccentric Contraction and Its Applications: A Role for the Giant Titin Protein. Front Physiol 2017; 8:70. [PMID: 28232805 PMCID: PMC5299520 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2016] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
When active muscles are stretched, our understanding of muscle function is stretched as well. Our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of concentric contraction has advanced considerably since the advent of the sliding filament theory, whereas mechanisms for increased force production during eccentric contraction are only now becoming clearer. Eccentric contractions play an important role in everyday human movements, including mobility, stability, and muscle strength. Shortly after the sliding filament theory of muscle contraction was introduced, there was a reluctant recognition that muscle behaved as if it contained an "elastic" filament. Jean Hanson and Hugh Huxley referred to this structure as the "S-filament," though their concept gained little traction. This additional filament, the giant titin protein, was identified several decades later, and its roles in muscle contraction are still being discovered. Recent research has demonstrated that, like activation of thin filaments by calcium, titin is also activated in muscle sarcomeres by mechanisms only now being elucidated. The mdm mutation in mice appears to prevent activation of titin, and is a promising model system for investigating mechanisms of titin activation. Titin stiffness appears to increase with muscle force production, providing a mechanism that explains two fundamental properties of eccentric contractions: their high force and low energetic cost. The high force and low energy cost of eccentric contractions makes them particularly well suited for athletic training and rehabilitation. Eccentric exercise is commonly prescribed for treatment of a variety of conditions including sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and tendinosis. Use of eccentric exercise in rehabilitation and athletic training has exploded to include treatment for the elderly, as well as muscle and bone density maintenance for astronauts during long-term space travel. For exercise intolerance and many types of sports injuries, experimental evidence suggests that interventions involving eccentric exercise are demonstrably superior to conventional concentric interventions. Future work promises to advance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that confer high force and low energy cost to eccentric contraction, as well as signaling mechanisms responsible for the beneficial effects of eccentric exercise in athletic training and rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kiisa C. Nishikawa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Center for Bioengineering Innovation, Northern Arizona UniversityFlagstaff, AZ, USA
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22
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Importance of contraction history on muscle force of porcine urinary bladder smooth muscle. Int Urol Nephrol 2016; 49:205-214. [DOI: 10.1007/s11255-016-1482-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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23
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Nishikawa K. Eccentric contraction: unraveling mechanisms of force enhancement and energy conservation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 219:189-96. [PMID: 26792330 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.124057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
During the past century, physiologists have made steady progress in elucidating the molecular mechanisms of muscle contraction. However, this progress has so far failed to definitively explain the high force and low energy cost of eccentric muscle contraction. Hypotheses that have been proposed to explain increased muscle force during active stretch include cross-bridge mechanisms, sarcomere and half-sarcomere length non-uniformity, and engagement of a structural element upon muscle activation. The available evidence suggests that force enhancement results from an interaction between an elastic element in muscle sarcomeres, which is engaged upon activation, and the cross-bridges, which interact with the elastic elements to regulate their length and stiffness. Similarities between titin-based residual force enhancement in vertebrate muscle and twitchin-based 'catch' in invertebrate muscle suggest evolutionary homology. The winding filament hypothesis suggests plausible molecular mechanisms for effects of both Ca(2+) influx and cross-bridge cycling on titin in active muscle. This hypothesis proposes that the N2A region of titin binds to actin upon Ca(2+) influx, and that the PEVK region of titin winds on the thin filaments during force development because the cross-bridges not only translate but also rotate the thin filaments. Simulations demonstrate that a muscle model based on the winding filament hypothesis can predict residual force enhancement on the descending limb of the length-tension curve in muscles during eccentric contraction. A kinematic model of titin winding based on sarcomere geometry makes testable predictions about titin isoforms in different muscles. Ongoing research is aimed at testing these predictions and elucidating the biochemistry of the underlying protein interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiisa Nishikawa
- Northern Arizona University, Department of Biological Sciences and Center for Bioengineering Innovation, Flagstaff, AZ 86011-4165, USA
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24
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Does weightlifting increase residual force enhancement? J Biomech 2016; 49:2047-2052. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2016.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Revised: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/15/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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25
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Heidlauf T, Klotz T, Rode C, Altan E, Bleiler C, Siebert T, Röhrle O. A multi-scale continuum model of skeletal muscle mechanics predicting force enhancement based on actin-titin interaction. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2016; 15:1423-1437. [PMID: 26935301 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-016-0772-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Although recent research emphasises the possible role of titin in skeletal muscle force enhancement, this property is commonly ignored in current computational models. This work presents the first biophysically based continuum-mechanical model of skeletal muscle that considers, in addition to actin-myosin interactions, force enhancement based on actin-titin interactions. During activation, titin attaches to actin filaments, which results in a significant reduction in titin's free molecular spring length and therefore results in increased titin forces during a subsequent stretch. The mechanical behaviour of titin is included on the microscopic half-sarcomere level of a multi-scale chemo-electro-mechanical muscle model, which is based on the classic sliding-filament and cross-bridge theories. In addition to titin stress contributions in the muscle fibre direction, the continuum-mechanical constitutive relation accounts for geometrically motivated, titin-induced stresses acting in the muscle's cross-fibre directions. Representative simulations of active stretches under maximal and submaximal activation levels predict realistic magnitudes of force enhancement in fibre direction. For example, stretching the model by 20 % from optimal length increased the isometric force at the target length by about 30 %. Predicted titin-induced stresses in the muscle's cross-fibre directions are rather insignificant. Including the presented development in future continuum-mechanical models of muscle function in dynamic situations will lead to more accurate model predictions during and after lengthening contractions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Heidlauf
- Institute of Applied Mechanics (CE), Pfaffenwaldring 7, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany.
| | - Thomas Klotz
- Institute of Applied Mechanics (CE), Pfaffenwaldring 7, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Christian Rode
- Institute of Motion Science, Friedrich-Schiller-University, Seidelstr. 20, 07749, Jena, Germany
| | - Ekin Altan
- Institute of Applied Mechanics (CE), Pfaffenwaldring 7, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Christian Bleiler
- Institute of Applied Mechanics (CE), Pfaffenwaldring 7, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Tobias Siebert
- Department of Sport and Motion Science, University of Stuttgart, Allmandring 28, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Oliver Röhrle
- Institute of Applied Mechanics (CE), Pfaffenwaldring 7, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
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26
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Residual force enhancement in humans: Current evidence and unresolved issues. J Electromyogr Kinesiol 2015; 25:571-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jelekin.2015.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Revised: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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27
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Siebert T, Leichsenring K, Rode C, Wick C, Stutzig N, Schubert H, Blickhan R, Böl M. Three-Dimensional Muscle Architecture and Comprehensive Dynamic Properties of Rabbit Gastrocnemius, Plantaris and Soleus: Input for Simulation Studies. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0130985. [PMID: 26114955 PMCID: PMC4482742 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0130985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The vastly increasing number of neuro-muscular simulation studies (with increasing numbers of muscles used per simulation) is in sharp contrast to a narrow database of necessary muscle parameters. Simulation results depend heavily on rough parameter estimates often obtained by scaling of one muscle parameter set. However, in vivo muscles differ in their individual properties and architecture. Here we provide a comprehensive dataset of dynamic (n = 6 per muscle) and geometric (three-dimensional architecture, n = 3 per muscle) muscle properties of the rabbit calf muscles gastrocnemius, plantaris, and soleus. For completeness we provide the dynamic muscle properties for further important shank muscles (flexor digitorum longus, extensor digitorum longus, and tibialis anterior; n = 1 per muscle). Maximum shortening velocity (normalized to optimal fiber length) of the gastrocnemius is about twice that of soleus, while plantaris showed an intermediate value. The force-velocity relation is similar for gastrocnemius and plantaris but is much more bent for the soleus. Although the muscles vary greatly in their three-dimensional architecture their mean pennation angle and normalized force-length relationships are almost similar. Forces of the muscles were enhanced in the isometric phase following stretching and were depressed following shortening compared to the corresponding isometric forces. While the enhancement was independent of the ramp velocity, the depression was inversely related to the ramp velocity. The lowest effect strength for soleus supports the idea that these effects adapt to muscle function. The careful acquisition of typical dynamical parameters (e.g. force-length and force-velocity relations, force elongation relations of passive components), enhancement and depression effects, and 3D muscle architecture of calf muscles provides valuable comprehensive datasets for e.g. simulations with neuro-muscular models, development of more realistic muscle models, or simulation of muscle packages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Siebert
- Department of Sport and Motion Science, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Kay Leichsenring
- Department of Sport and Motion Science, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Christian Rode
- Institute of Motion Science, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Carolin Wick
- Institute of Motion Science, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Norman Stutzig
- Department of Sport and Motion Science, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Harald Schubert
- Institut für Versuchstierkunde und Tierschutz, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Reinhard Blickhan
- Institute of Motion Science, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Markus Böl
- Institute of Solid Mechanics, Technical University at Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
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28
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Seiberl W, Power GA, Herzog W, Hahn D. The stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) revisited: residual force enhancement contributes to increased performance during fast SSCs of human m. adductor pollicis. Physiol Rep 2015; 3:3/5/e12401. [PMID: 25975646 PMCID: PMC4463830 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.12401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The stretch-shortening cycle (SSC) occurs in most everyday movements, and is thought to provoke a performance enhancement of the musculoskeletal system. However, mechanisms of this performance enhancement remain a matter of debate. One proposed mechanism is associated with a stretch-induced increase in steady-state force, referred to as residual force enhancement (RFE). As yet, direct evidence relating RFE to increased force/work during SSCs is missing. Therefore, forces of electrically stimulated m. adductor pollicis (n = 14 subjects) were measured during and after pure stretch, pure shortening, and stretch-shortening contractions with varying shortening amplitudes. Active stretch (30°, ω = 161 ± 6°s−1) caused significant RFE (16%, P < 0.01), whereas active shortening (10°, 20°, and 30°; ω = 103 ± 3°s−1, 152 ± 5°s−1, and 170 ± 5°s−1) resulted in significant force depression (9–15%, P < 0.01). In contrast, after SSCs (that is when active stretch preceded active shortening) no force depression was found. Indeed for our specific case in which the shortening amplitude was only 1/3 of the lengthening amplitude, there was a remnant RFE (10%, P < 0.01) following the active shortening. This result indicates that the RFE generated during lengthening affected force depression when active lengthening was followed by active shortening. As conventional explanations, such as the storage and release of elastic energy, cannot explain the enhanced steady-state force after SSCs, it appears that the stretch-induced RFE is not immediately abolished during shortening and contributes to the increased force and work during SSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Seiberl
- Department of Biomechanics in Sports, Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Geoffrey A Power
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Walter Herzog
- Human Performance Laboratory, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Daniel Hahn
- Human Movement Science, Faculty of Sports Science, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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29
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Contraction induced muscle injury: towards personalized training and recovery programs. Ann Biomed Eng 2014; 43:388-403. [PMID: 25352440 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-014-1173-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Skeletal muscles can be injured by their own contractions. Such contraction-induced injury, often accompanied by delayed onset of muscle soreness, is a leading cause of the loss of mobility in the rapidly increasing population of elderly people. Unlike other types of muscle injuries which hurt almost exclusively those who are subjected to intensive exercise such as professional athletes and soldiers in training, contraction induced injury is a phenomenon which may be experienced by people of all ages while performing a variety of daily-life activities. Subjects that experience contraction induced injury report on soreness that usually increases in intensity in the first 24 h after the activity, peaks from 24 to 72 h, and then subsides and disappears in a few days. Despite their clinical importance and wide influence, there are almost no studies, clinical, experimental or computational, that quantitatively relate between the extent of contraction induced injury and activity factors, such as number of repetitions, their frequency and magnitude. The lack of such quantitative information is even more emphasized by the fact that contraction induced injury can be used, if moderate and controlled, to improve muscle performance in the long term. Thus, if properly understood and carefully implemented, contraction induced injury can be used for the purpose of personalized training and recovery programs. In this paper, we review experimental, clinical, and theoretical works, attempting towards drawing a more quantitative description of contraction induced injury and related phenomena.
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30
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On the relevance of residual force enhancement for everyday human movement. J Biomech 2013; 46:1996-2001. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2013.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2013] [Revised: 06/12/2013] [Accepted: 06/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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31
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Power GA, Makrakos DP, Rice CL, Vandervoort AA. Enhanced force production in old age is not a far stretch: an investigation of residual force enhancement and muscle architecture. Physiol Rep 2013; 1:e00004. [PMID: 24303098 PMCID: PMC3831934 DOI: 10.1002/phy2.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2013] [Accepted: 04/29/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In older adults, isometric force production is enhanced following a voluntary lengthening contraction when compared with isometric force produced at the same muscle length without a prior lengthening contraction. This phenomenon is termed residual force enhancement (RFE), and appears to be related to the age-related maintenance of eccentric (ECC) strength. However, it is unknown whether age-related changes in muscle architecture contribute to greater RFE at short and long muscle lengths in old age. Neuromuscular properties of the knee extensors were assessed on a HUMAC NORM dynamometer. Torque was examined in young (26 ± 3 year, n = 11) and old men (77 ± 6 year, n = 11) during brief maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVC) at 80° and 120° (180° representing full knee extension) and then compared with torque during a steady-state phase at the same joint angle following a maximal voluntary lengthening contraction at 30°/sec over a 60° joint excursion; either from 140 to 80° (long), or from 180 to 120° (short). Ultrasound images were obtained from the vastus lateralis during the isometric phase for each condition. When comparing the ECC torque with the MVC isometric torque, old men had 17% greater ECC:MVC ratios than young men, confirming an age-related maintenance of ECC strength. The extent of RFE was greater at long versus short but independent of age. At rest, old had shorter (∼18%) and less pennated (∼22%) fascicles. However, changes in fascicle length and pennation during contraction did not contribute to RFE in either group. Thus, age-related changes in muscle architecture may not contribute to RFE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey A Power
- Human Performance Laboratory, University of Calgary Calgary, Alberta, Canada ; Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging, School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario Canada
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Power GA, Rice CL, Vandervoort AA. Increased residual force enhancement in older adults is associated with a maintenance of eccentric strength. PLoS One 2012; 7:e48044. [PMID: 23133544 PMCID: PMC3479122 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0048044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2012] [Accepted: 09/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite an age-related loss of voluntary isometric and concentric strength, muscle strength is well maintained during lengthening muscle actions (i.e., eccentric strength) in old age. Additionally, in younger adults during lengthening of an activated skeletal muscle, the force level observed following the stretch is greater than the isometric force at the same muscle length. This feature is termed residual force enhancement (RFE) and is believed to be a combination of active and passive components of the contractile apparatus. The purpose of this study was to provide an initial assessment of RFE in older adults and utilize aging as a muscle model to explore RFE in a system in which isometric force production is compromised, but structural mechanisms of eccentric strength are well-maintained. Therefore, we hypothesised that older adults will experience greater RFE compared with young adults. Following a reference maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) of the dorsiflexors in 10 young (26.1±2.7y) and 10 old (76.0±6.5y) men, an active stretch was performed at 15°/s over a 30° ankle joint excursion ending at the same muscle length as the reference MVCs (40° of plantar flexion). Any additional torque compared with the reference MVC therefore represented RFE. In older men RFE was ∼2.5 times greater compared to young. The passive component of force enhancement contributed ∼37% and ∼20% to total force enhancement, in old and young respectively. The positive association (R2 = 0.57) between maintained eccentric strength in old age and RFE indicates age-related mechanisms responsible for the maintenance of eccentric strength likely contributed to the observed elevated RFE. Additionally, as indicated by the greater passive force enhancement, these mechanisms may be related to increased muscle series elastic stiffness in old age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey A Power
- Canadian Centre for Activity and Aging, School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.
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Residual force enhancement following eccentric induced muscle damage. J Biomech 2012; 45:1835-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2012.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2012] [Revised: 04/05/2012] [Accepted: 04/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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