Multiple Choice
Which type of muscle tissue is striated (shows visible banding under the microscope)?
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4. Tissues & Histology
Types of Muscle Tissue
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In cardiac muscle tissue, what is the primary function of intercalated discs?
A
They increase friction between smooth muscle cells to strengthen peristalsis
B
They store calcium ions for rapid release during excitation-contraction coupling
C
They attach skeletal muscle fibers to tendons at the myotendinous junction
D
They mechanically and electrically couple adjacent cardiac muscle cells to coordinate contraction
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that intercalated discs are specialized structures found only in cardiac muscle tissue, not in smooth or skeletal muscle.
Recognize that the primary role of intercalated discs is to connect adjacent cardiac muscle cells both mechanically and electrically.
Note that intercalated discs contain gap junctions and desmosomes; gap junctions allow electrical signals to pass quickly between cells, while desmosomes provide strong mechanical attachment.
Realize that this coupling enables the heart muscle cells to contract in a coordinated and synchronized manner, which is essential for effective heartbeats.
Conclude that the main function of intercalated discs is to ensure the heart muscle functions as a unified whole by facilitating both mechanical strength and electrical communication between cells.
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