We have proposed a three-dimensional model for the structure of the backbones of thick filaments of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, based on electron microscopy and image analysis. In this model, the core is a tubule of seven paramyosin subfilaments, coupled by crosslinking proteins. Thick filament rigidity is a necessary element in the sliding-filament theory of muscle contraction. We have measured the rigidity displayed by these structures in electron micrographs, by the stochastic measure of persistence length. The conventional model of vertebrate thick filaments based solely upon the intertwining of myosin tails in a ropelike manner cannot explain their exceptional flexural rigidity. The coupled tubule principle may explain the rigidity observed in thick filaments and other linear structures

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Center for Research Resources (NCRR)
Type
Biotechnology Resource Grants (P41)
Project #
5P41RR002250-14
Application #
6120885
Study Section
Project Start
1998-12-01
Project End
1999-11-30
Budget Start
1998-10-01
Budget End
1999-09-30
Support Year
14
Fiscal Year
1999
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Baylor College of Medicine
Department
Type
DUNS #
074615394
City
Houston
State
TX
Country
United States
Zip Code
77030
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