What is the role of Tropomyosin in myofibril contraction?

Tropomyosin helps to regulate myofibril contraction. Before contraction, tropomyosin covers the myosin binding sites on the actin molecule, preventing the myosin heads from binding. During contraction, calcium binds to troponin, causes conformational change in troponin. This pulls tropomyosin away from the myosin binding sites as troponin is attached to tropomyosin. This exposes myosin binding sites, allowing myosin to bind. 

LH
Answered by Laura H. Biology tutor

11160 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How is an action potential generated?


How is blood glucose concentration regulated, with reference to insulin, glucagon and the liver?


Describe the process of DNA replication.


How do I work out a genetic cross?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning