Muscle Contraction Simulation based on Molecular Potential Theory. Sliding Motion of Myosin.

In this paper, a numerical method for analysing muscle contraction has been derived based on the modified Mitsui's self-induced translation model. Discussion is focused on a molecular potential distributed along the actin and myosin filaments. Three potentials are introduced: the periodic potential along the actin filament, the self-induced potential on myosin heads and the elastic potential of heavy meromyosin rods. The energy of ATPase generates the self-induced potential between myosin and actin filaments, and forces the myosin to slide along the actin filament. The isotonic contraction is simulated. Numerical results of myosin motion show good agreement with recent experimental results of myosin slide distance from l0 nm to 200 nm in vitro motility assay.