Force-velocity relations in mammalian heart muscle

Abstract

Force-velocity relations were studied in the cat papillary muscle. As with skeletal muscle, a characteristic relation has been demonstrated between the velocity of shortening (V) and the force developed (Po). Two generalities have been shown to pertain. First, increasing initial muscle length increases the maximal developed force (Po) without a change in the maximal velocity of shortening (Vmax). Secondly, at any one muscle length, changes in frequency of contraction and chemical environment (increased calcium and norepinephrine) increase Vmax with a variable change in Po. Changes in Vmax thus help to characterize an inotropic intervention (altered contractility). Work and power, at any one muscle length, are functions of afterload, with maxima when the load is approximately 40% of isometric tension. With increasing initial muscle length, the work and power at any one afterload as well as the maximal work and power of the muscle are both increased. At constant initial length, positive inotropic interventions (increased frequency, increased calcium, and norepinephrine) increase the work at any one afterload as well as shift the maximal work potential to a higher afterload. Work performance thus depends on muscle length, the prevailing force-velocity curve, and the afterload at which the muscle is operating.