To coordinate the contraction of the numerous muscle cells that form the heart, signals must travel rapidly between muscle cells. In order to allow this rapid communication, muscle cells in the heart must be connected by

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Gap junctions allow for direct passage of ions and small molecules between the cytoplasm of adjacent cells, facilitating rapid signaling necessary for coordinated contraction of the heart muscle. Tight junctions are involved in cell adhesion and barrier function, anchoring junctions provide structural support, and carrier proteins transport molecules across membranes.

To Coordinate the Contraction of the Numerous Muscle Cells That