Myocardial contractile cell

Myocardial Contractile Cells

Myocardial contractile cells, also known as cardiomyocytes, are the muscle cells (myocytes) that make up the majority of the heart tissue. These cells are responsible for the contractile function of the heart, which allows it to pump blood throughout the body.

Structure

Myocardial contractile cells are elongated, cylindrical cells that are approximately 100 micrometers in length and 10-20 micrometers in diameter. They contain a single, centrally located nucleus and are surrounded by a cell membrane known as the sarcolemma. The interior of the cell is filled with myofibrils, which are the contractile elements of the cell.

Function

The primary function of myocardial contractile cells is to contract and relax, which allows the heart to pump blood. This is achieved through a process known as excitation-contraction coupling, which involves the transmission of an electrical signal from the cell membrane to the myofibrils.

Excitation-Contraction Coupling

Excitation-contraction coupling in myocardial contractile cells begins with the initiation of an action potential at the cell membrane. This action potential travels along the sarcolemma and into the cell via transverse tubules. The action potential then triggers the release of calcium ions from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, which bind to troponin on the myofibrils and initiate contraction.

Clinical Significance

Abnormalities in myocardial contractile cells can lead to a variety of heart conditions, including cardiomyopathy, heart failure, and arrhythmias. Research into the function and pathology of these cells is therefore of great importance in the field of cardiology.

See Also

• Cardiac Muscle
• Cardiac Physiology
• Heart Disease

References

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