Which one is required for muscle contraction and nerve impulse transmission?
- $Ca^{2+}$
- $Mg^{2+}$
- $Fe^{2+}$
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Both A and B
Reveal answer
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A
Correct answer
Explanation
- A neural signal reaching this junction releases a neurotransmitter (Acetylcholine) which generates an action potential in the sarcolemma. This spreads through the muscle fibre and causes the release of calcium ions into the sarcoplasm
- Active sites for myosin are present on actin which are masked by troponin-C in resting state. When Ca++ level increases it leads to the binding of calcium with a subunit of troponin i.e Troponin-C on actin(thin) filaments and thereby remove the masking of active sites for myosin.
- Utilizing the energy from ATP hydrolysis, the myosin head now binds to the exposed active sites on actin to form a cross bridge.
- This pulls the attached actin filaments towards the centre of ‘A’ band.
- The ‘Z’ line attached to these actins are also pulled inwards thereby causing a shortening of the sarcomere, i.e., contraction. The myosin, releasing the ADP and P1 goes back to its relaxed state. Hence Ca$^{2+}$ is required for muscle contraction and nerve impulse transmission.
- So, the correct answer is 'Ca 2+'.