ISSN:
1420-9071
Keywords:
Smooth muscle
;
calcium
;
myosin light chain kinase
;
regulation of contraction
;
ATPase
;
mechanics
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Medicine
Notes:
Summary The contraction induced by a Ca2+-independent myosin light chain kinase (MLCK-) was characterized in terms of isometric force (Fo), immediate elastic recoil (SE), unloaded shortening velocity (Vus), shortening under a constant load and ATPase activity of chemically skinned smooth muscle preparations. These parameters were compared to those measured in a Ca2+-induced contraction to assess the nature of cross bridge interaction in the MLCK-induced contraction. Fo developed in chicken gizzard fibers as well as SE were similar in contractions elicited by either agent. Vus in the contraction induced by MLCK-(0.36 mg/ml) was similar though averaged 39.3±8.9% less than Vus induced by Ca2+ (1.6x10−6M) in the control fibers. Addition of Ca2+ (1.6x10−6M) to a contraction induced by MLCK-resulted in small increases in both Fo and Vus. Shortening under a constant load was similar for both types of contractions. The contraction induced by MLCK-was accompanied by an increased rate of ATP hydrolysis. The MLCK-induced contraction is thus kinetically similar though not identical to a contraction induced by Ca2+. We conclude that with respect to actin-myosin interaction, MLCK- and Ca2+-induced contractions are similar.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01952121
