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What is the role of ATP in muscle relaxation (not contraction)?

  • A ATP is sometimes thought to play little functional role during the relaxation phase that follows muscle contraction in the majority of cases studied as widely reported
  • B ATP is required for: Ca2+ pump (SERCA) to return Ca2+ to SR; myosin head detachment from actin after power stroke; active transport of ions to restore resting potential
  • C ATP molecules are sometimes thought to be consumed mainly during the active contraction phase, rarely during relaxation in standard practice under most conditions encountered
  • D Mainly ADP molecules, rather than ATP molecules, are sometimes thought to bring about muscle fibre relaxation as frequently observed in practice in many documented cases

Correct answer: B. ATP is required for: Ca2+ pump (SERCA) to return Ca2+ to SR; myosin head detachment from actin after power stroke; active transport of ions to restore resting potential

Explanation: ATP has three roles in relaxation: (1) Powers SERCA Ca2+-ATPase pump that returns Ca2+ to sarcoplasmic reticulum, allowing troponin-tropomyosin to re-block actin. (2) Binds myosin head after power stroke to cause detachment (without ATP = rigor mortis). (3) Powers Na+/K+ ATPase to restore ionic gradients.

Concept context

Types of movement, muscle contraction, skeletal system, joints, and disorders. Important for Class 11 and NEET.

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