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Multiple Choice
What are the intercalated discs that are found in cardiac muscle?
A
Areas where muscle fibers attach to tendons
B
Specialized connections between cardiac muscle cells that facilitate synchronized contraction
C
Sites of calcium ion storage for muscle contraction
D
Regions of high mitochondrial density for increased energy production
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that intercalated discs are unique to cardiac muscle tissue and are not found in other types of muscle tissue.
Recognize that intercalated discs are specialized structures that connect cardiac muscle cells (cardiomyocytes) to each other.
Learn that these discs contain gap junctions and desmosomes, which are crucial for the function of cardiac muscle.
Gap junctions within intercalated discs allow for the direct passage of ions and electrical impulses between cells, enabling synchronized contraction of the heart muscle.
Desmosomes provide mechanical strength by anchoring the cells together, ensuring that the heart muscle can withstand the stress of continuous contractions.