Conserved mammalian muscle mechanics during eccentric contractions

Skeletal muscle has a broad range of biomechanical functions, including power generation and energy absorption. These roles are underpinned by the force–velocity relationship, which comprises two distinct components: a concentric and an eccentric force–velocity relationship. The concentric component has been extensively studied across a wide range of muscles with different muscle properties. However, to date, little progress has been made in accurately characterising the eccentric force–velocity relationship in mammalian muscle with varying muscle properties. Consequently, mathematical models of this muscle behaviour are based on a poorly understood phenomenon. Here, we present a comprehensive assessment of the concentric force–velocity and eccentric force–velocity relationships of four mammalian muscles (soleus, extensor digitorum longus, diaphragm and digastric) with varying biomechanical functions, spanning three orders of magnitude in body mass (mouse, rat and rabbits). The force–velocity relationship was characterised using a hyperbolic-linear equation for the concentric component a hyperbolic equation for the eccentric component, at the same time as measuring the rate of force development in the two phases of force development in relation to eccentric lengthening velocity. We demonstrate that, despite differences in the curvature and plateau height of the eccentric force–velocity relationship, the rates of relative force development were consistent for the two phases of the force–time response during isovelocity lengthening ramps, in relation to lengthening velocity, in the four muscles studied. Our data support the hypothesis that this relationship depends on cross-bridge and titin activation. Hill-type musculoskeletal models of the eccentric force–velocity relationship for mammalian muscles should incorporate this biphasic force response.