Changes in force-velocity properties of trachealis due to oscillatory strains

The physically dynamic environment of the lung constantly modulates the mechanical properties of airway smooth muscle. In vitro experiments have shown that contractility of the muscle is compromised by oscillatory strains, perhaps through disruption of cross-bridge interaction and organization of the contractile filaments. To understand the mechanism by which oscillation affects contractility, functional changes of the muscle in terms of force-velocity relationship were assessed before and after imposition of length oscillation in both relaxed and activated states. The oscillation protocol was designed to reduce isometric force by 15-20%, followed by measurement of force-velocity properties. Maximal velocity and power changed by +8 and -14%, respectively, after oscillation applied in the relaxed state and changed by -15 and -25%, respectively, after oscillation applied during contraction. A simple model of reduced activation could not account for the results; neither could the results be explained satisfactorily by the current cross-bridge theory of contraction. The results, however, could be explained if the possibility of reorganization of the contractile filaments due to oscillatory strains was considered.