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Updated: Jul 21, 2026

Biophysical Characterization of Flagellar Motor Functions
Published on: January 18, 2017
Molecular mechanism for oscillation in flagella and muscle
Abstract:
Two-state models for muscle cross-bridges, of the type originally detailed by Andrew Huxley, were examined. Rate functions for cross-bridge attachment and detachment can be chosen which yield a steady-state force-velocity relationship appropriate for the spontaneous generation of oscillatory contractions. Computer simulations have been used to demonstrate oscillation of such cross-bridge systems, and to demonstrate that distribution of this type of local shear oscillation along the length of a flagellum is sufficient for the generation of propagated bending waves.
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