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Heart muscle, light micrograph C016 / 0517
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Heart muscle, light micrograph C016 / 0517
Heart muscle. Light micrograph of a section through heart (cardiac) muscle tissue, showing cardiomyocyte muscle cells. These cells have a centrally located nucleus and are branched and joined end-to-end by special intercellular connections called intercalated discs. These discs contain gap junctions allowing conduction of electrical impulses between very many cells enabling rapid and coordinated muscle contraction. The energy needed to maintain continuous heart contraction is provided by the thousands of mitochondria in each cell, seen as dark purple streaks throughout the cytoplasm. Connective tissue between cardiomyocytes has a rich supply of blood vessels. Magnification: x556, when printed 10 centimetres high
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9238935
© MICROSCAPE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Branched Branching Cardiac Cardiomyocyte Cell Biology Cytological Cytology Cytoplasm Cytoplasmic Discs Histological Histology Mitochondria Mitochondrion Myological Myology Nuclei Nucleus Stain Stained Tissue Cells Light Micrograph Light Microscope Section Sectioned
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of heart muscle tissue, revealing the complex network of cardiomyocyte muscle cells. The image, captured under a light microscope at a magnification of x556, offers a glimpse into the remarkable structure and functionality of this vital organ. Each cardiomyocyte cell in the photograph features a centrally located nucleus and exhibits branching patterns that interconnect with neighboring cells through specialized intercalated discs. These discs contain gap junctions, enabling seamless communication between numerous cells and facilitating rapid and coordinated muscle contractions essential for maintaining heart function. The dark purple streaks observed throughout the cytoplasm represent thousands of mitochondria within each cell. These energy powerhouses play a crucial role in sustaining continuous heart contraction by providing the necessary fuel for cellular activities. Furthermore, this micrograph highlights the presence of connective tissue richly supplied with blood vessels between cardiomyocytes. This vascular network ensures efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to support optimal cardiac performance. Overall, this extraordinary image not only showcases the structural complexity but also emphasizes the functional significance of these cardiac muscle cells in ensuring our hearts beat harmoniously. It serves as a testament to both nature's exquisite design and scientific advancements that allow us to explore such microscopic wonders.
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