Why are gap junctions a vital part of the intercellular connection of cardiac muscles?

• A. They prevent the backflow of blood within the heart chambers.
• B. They store calcium ions necessary for muscle contraction.
• C. They provide structural support to the cardiac muscle fibers.
• D. They allow for the rapid transmission of electrical impulses between cardiac cells.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of gap junctions: Gap junctions are specialized intercellular connections that facilitate direct communication between cells by allowing the passage of ions and small molecules.
2. Identify the function of cardiac muscle cells: Cardiac muscle cells need to contract in a coordinated manner to effectively pump blood throughout the body.
3. Recognize the importance of electrical impulses: For cardiac muscle cells to contract synchronously, electrical impulses must be rapidly transmitted from one cell to the next.
4. Connect gap junctions to electrical impulse transmission: Gap junctions allow ions to flow freely between cardiac cells, enabling the quick spread of electrical impulses necessary for synchronized contraction.
5. Conclude why gap junctions are vital: By allowing rapid transmission of electrical impulses, gap junctions ensure that cardiac muscle cells contract in unison, which is essential for the heart's function as a pump.