Isometric tension from rotary stimulation of fast and slow cat muscles

Abstract

In cats anesthetized with alpha-chloralose, different populations of motor units in soleus, plantaris, and medial gastrocnemius muscles were stimulated in rotation through surgically divided groups of ventral roots. As a result, smooth muscular contractions were obtained at low frequencies of rotary stimulation, and maximal tetanic tensions were induced at frequencies within the upper range of voluntary contractions. The frequencies necessary to induce maximal tetanic contractions were lower for slow-twitch muscles than for fast-twitch muscles. It is speculated that the primary benefit resulting from asynchronous stimulation of the muscles is in the engagement of the tendon, which permits motor units to exert their tension without having to overcome a major portion of the elastic damping.