Contractile tissue characterised by presence of intercalated discs is ...
Contractile tissue characterised by presence of intercalated discs is found in:
1. Heart
2. Biceps
3. Intercostal muscle
4. Diaphragm
Explanation:
Intercalated discs are specialized structures found in cardiac muscle tissue. They are responsible for the unique properties of the cardiac muscle, allowing it to contract efficiently and synchronously.
1. Heart:
The heart is composed of specialized cardiac muscle tissue, which forms the myocardium. Cardiac muscle cells are interconnected by intercalated discs. These discs contain two types of junctions: desmosomes and gap junctions.
- Desmosomes: These are protein structures that anchor adjacent cardiac muscle cells together, providing mechanical strength to the tissue. They prevent the cells from separating during contraction and relaxation.
- Gap junctions: These are specialized channels that allow for direct electrical coupling between adjacent cardiac muscle cells. They provide a pathway for the rapid spread of electrical impulses throughout the heart, ensuring coordinated contraction.
The presence of intercalated discs in cardiac muscle tissue allows for efficient and synchronized contraction of the heart, enabling it to pump blood effectively.
2. Biceps:
Biceps are skeletal muscles, which are composed of skeletal muscle tissue. Skeletal muscles do not possess intercalated discs. Instead, they are made up of long, multinucleated muscle fibers that are organized into bundles.
3. Intercostal muscle:
Intercostal muscles are also skeletal muscles and do not contain intercalated discs. They are located between the ribs and play a role in breathing by aiding in the movement of the ribcage.
4. Diaphragm:
Similar to intercostal muscles, the diaphragm is a skeletal muscle involved in respiration. It contracts and relaxes to facilitate breathing. It does not have intercalated discs.
In summary, contractile tissue characterized by the presence of intercalated discs is specifically found in the heart. These intercalated discs allow for efficient electrical and mechanical coupling between cardiac muscle cells, ensuring synchronized contraction and effective pumping of blood.
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