Load-dependent sliding direction change of a myosin head on an actin molecule and its energetic aspects: Energy borrowing model of a cross-bridge cycle

A model of muscle contraction is proposed, assuming loose coupling between power strokes and ATP hydrolysis of a myosin head. The energy borrowing mechanism is introduced in a cross-bridge cycle that borrows energy from the environment to cover the necessary energy for enthalpy production during sliding movement. Important premises for modeling are as follows: 1) the interaction area where a myosin head slides is supposed to be on an actin molecule; 2) the actomyosin complex is assumed to generate force F(θ), which slides the myosin head M* in the interaction area; 3) the direction of the force F(θ) varies in proportion to the load P; 4) the energy supplied by ATP hydrolysis is used to retain the myosin head in the high-energy state M*, and is not used for enthalpy production; 5) the myosin head enters a hydration state and dehydration state repeatedly during the cross-bridge cycle. The dehydrated myosin head recovers its hydrated state by hydration in the surrounding medium; 6) the energy source for work and heat production liberated by the AM* complex is of external origin. On the basis of these premises, the model adequately explains the experimental results observed at various levels in muscular samples: 1) twist in actin filaments observed in shortening muscle fibers; 2) the load-velocity relationship in single muscle fiber; 3) energy balance among enthalpy production, the borrowed energy and the energy supplied by ATP hydrolysis during muscle contraction. Force F(θ) acting on the myosin head is depicted.