Project 1.  Muscle physiology: mapping the design space of muscle.
What is the relationship between neural input and muscle mechanical output?

We aim to use the workloop technique coupled with numeric optimization to map how muscle force, work and power depend on input parameters such as shortening amplitude, stimulation phase, stimulation duration and stimulation waveform envelope (a novel parameter).  Using a numeric optimization algorithm we will alter these parameters to navigate the hypothetical ‘design space’ that describes how the nervous system may modulate the mechanical output of muscle.  We hope to map the topography of the relevant parts of this design space.  This will add to our understanding of how the nervous system shifts muscle function to meet changing demands for force, work, power and efficiency. Back to projects...