Question

Intercalated discs are complex cellular junctions that provide both mechanical and electrical connections between adjacent cardiac muscle cells. The transverse portions of intercalated discs bond the two cells together and function as hemi Z lines to link the contractile apparatus of the two cells. The longitudinal portions of intercalated discs contain gap junctions, which transmit depolarization to a neighboring cell, synchronizing contraction. True or False?

Answer 1

The statement regarding intercalated discs providing electrical and mechanical connections in the heart through gap junctions and desmosomes is true, ensuring synchronized cardiac muscle contraction.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement provided is true. Intercalated discs are indeed complex structures that are crucial for the functioning of cardiac muscle cells. Intercalated discs are made up of gap junctions and desmosomes. The gap junctions facilitate the flow of depolarizing current between adjacent cardiac muscle fibers, enabling electric coupling. This allows quick transmission of action potentials and coordinated contraction of the heart muscle, forming a syncytium. Moreover, desmosomes anchor the ends of cardiac muscle fibers, preventing cells from pulling apart during contraction. Therefore, both electric and mechanical stability are provided by these structures, ensuring synchronized contraction.