Cardiomyocyták

Cardiomyocyták, also known as cardiac muscle cells, are specialized cells that make up the myocardium, the muscular tissue of the heart. These cells are striated, meaning they possess a regular pattern of alternating light and dark bands, which is characteristic of muscle tissue. Cardiomyocyták are long, branched, and interconnected, forming a functional syncytium through specialized junctions called intercalated discs. These discs allow for rapid electrical and mechanical coupling between cells, enabling the coordinated contraction of the heart.

The primary function of cardiomyocyták is to generate the force required for the heart to pump blood throughout the body. This contractile function is powered by a high density of mitochondria within the cells, providing the necessary ATP for muscle contraction. Cardiomyocyták also possess a unique electrical property, exhibiting automaticity, which allows them to generate and conduct electrical impulses that regulate the heart's rhythm. Specialized cardiomyocyták, known as pacemaker cells, initiate these electrical signals.

Under normal physiological conditions, cardiomyocyták have limited regenerative capacity. Damage to these cells, such as that caused by a heart attack, often results in scar tissue formation, which impairs cardiac function. Research is ongoing to explore methods for regenerating or repairing damaged cardiomyocyták to improve outcomes for patients with heart disease. The structure and function of cardiomyocyták are critical for maintaining cardiovascular health.