August 4, 2014

How the “Biological Spark Plug” in Biomolecular Motors Works


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Heidelberg researchers simulate processes that trigger muscle movement

Using high-performance computers and quantum mechanical methods, researchers at Heidelberg University have simulated processes that reveal how the “biological spark plug” works in the biomolecular motors of cells. Under the direction of Dr. Stefan Fischer, the investigations focused on the myosin protein, which, among other things, is responsible for muscle movement. The researchers’ extensive simulations show how the release of energy is initiated in this complex motor.