Briefly describe the mechanism of muscle contraction.

In muscle, myosin protein has 'heads' that act as cross-bridges as they bind to actin, another protein. When ATP binds to myosin, its head detaches from actin, swings forward and rebinds. Rebinding releases ADP and a phosphate ion, and rage the actin filament alongside the replacement of the myosin head, causing the contraction of muscle.

HG
Answered by Hester G. Biology tutor

9759 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the path of electrical activity through the heart, starting at the sino-atrial node.


Explain the mechanism of breathing


How are blood glucose levels regulated in humans?


Explain how competitive inhibitors work?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning