The Structure and Properties of Myofibrillar Proteins in Beef, Poultry, and Fish

The myofibrillar proteins myosin, actin, tropomyosin, and troponin are involved in the contraction of muscle. They are also an integral part of the unique, highly organized structure of muscle tissue. The chemistry and biochemistry of these proteins has been studied both in vivo and in vitro by scientists from many different fields. The same proteins are of great importance to food scientists because of their role in meat and meat products. This review summarizes some of the important physicochemical and biochemical properties of these proteins that may be important for food scientists.