Control of sarcomerogenesis-growth of the heart

A theory for the growth of the cardiac sarcomere and heart size is proposed. The stress-strain environment and O/sub 2/ consumption are computed for the myocardium using a mechanical model of the left ventricle. Cardiac afterload and preload are maintained constant while the dimensions of the ventricle are altered. It is observed that the computed ventricular dimensions result in normal heart function, based on examination of stroke volume, heart rate, and ventricular pressure. Global quantities were not necessarily optimal. It is theorized that sarcomerogenesis is stimulated by an increase in the fiber stress along the myofibril.<
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