Force-Velocity-Endurance relation in Animal Locomotion – FOVEAL

The FOVEAL project aims at developing a novel theoretical framework for understanding the muscle force production capacity as a function of time and contraction velocity during animal locomotion. This project rely on a multidisciplinary research team including specialists in applied mathematics, muscle biology, integrative physiology, biomechanics and ecology. We will first propose a mathematical model that describes the force-velocity-endurance capacity. This relation will make possible to understand the animal locomotion capacities when the mechanical constraints are variable (e.g. in mountains). As this relation seems valid from the organ (muscle) to the function (locomotion) and across species, the proposed approach originality is to take advantage of different experimental models (scales and species) to address the different research questions. Thus, in situ muscle mice model will provide insight at the muscle level thanks to functional, histological and biochemical analysis; running human model is the cornerstone as it allows to test our hypothesis and validate the methodological approach in both laboratory-controlled conditions (running treadmill) and natural environment (trail running). Integrative exercise physiology approach will also be possible in humans to understand the mechanisms involved in the individual force-velocity-endurance characteristics Finally, wild chamois model will permit to develop a non-invasive evaluation methodology of wild animals in their natural environment presenting variable mechanical conditions. This will provide insights in the relationships between the muscle organ and the locomotor function, and between the capacities of individuals and the requirements of the physical activity being health/performance (human) or survival (animals).