A Level Biology Practice Exam

Which structure is involved in the contraction of muscle tissues?

1. Myofibrils

2. Neurons

3. Sarcomeres

4. Nuclei

The correct answer is: Sarcomeres

The correct answer is sarcomeres, as they are the fundamental units of contraction in muscle tissues. Sarcomeres are composed of actin and myosin filaments that slide past one another during muscle contraction. This sliding mechanism is initiated by neural stimulation, which releases calcium ions, leading to the interaction between the actin and myosin filaments facilitated by the protein troponin and tropomyosin. Myofibrils, while crucial for muscle structure, are made up of many sarcomeres lined up in series, and they play an important role in the overall contraction process rather than being the direct site of contraction. Neurons are responsible for transmitting signals to muscles but are not involved in the contraction process itself. Nuclei serve a regulatory role within muscle fibers but do not directly participate in muscle contraction mechanics. Therefore, the specific and direct role sarcomeres play in muscle contraction makes them the correct answer.