Parameter Estimation in a Crossbridge Muscle Model

Abstract

Models of muscle crossbridge dynamics have great potential for understanding muscle contraction and having a wide range of application. However, the estimation of many model parameters, most of which are difficult to measure, limits their applicability. This study developed a method of estimating parameters in the Distribution Moment crossbridge model from measurements of force-length and force-velocity relationships in cat soleus single muscle fibers. Analysis of the parameter estimates showed that the detachment rate parameters had more uncertainty than the attachment rate parameter, which could reflect physiological variations in the contractile protein content and in the response of muscle to lengthenings.