How does the sliding filament theory work?

A nerve impulse in the sarcoplasmic reticulum causes calcium ions to move out of it into the muscle cells where it binds to tropmyosin/troponin causing it to move and reveal the actin filament. The myosin can then bind to the actin. The myosin head bends pulling the actin along with it via the hydrolysis of ATP attached to the head as it releases energy. Calcium aids with the attachment of ATP to the myosin head causing it to detach so it can bind again.This process takes place as long calcium ions are present due to the innervation by an action potential in the SR; when it stops the sliding filament theory stops.

Answered by Charlotte K. Biology tutor

6653 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Enzyme inhibitors are often used as antiretroviral drugs in the treatment of HIV. Describe the structure of an enzyme and suggest how antiretroviral drugs would work in the treatment of HIV.


When a nerve impulse arrives at a synapse, it causes the release of neurotransmitter from vesicles in the presynaptic knob. Describe how.


What are the main differences between Mitosis and Meiosis?


How do vaccinations work? Relating to humoral immunity and the secondary immune response.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences