Gap junctions
A) electrically isolate cardiac muscle cells.
B) allow large numbers of cardiac muscle cells to contract in unison.
C) provide enough strength to withstand the large pressure generated by the ventricles.
D) are found only in the cardiac muscle cells of the ventricles.
E) are especially abundant in the muscles between the atria and ventricles.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gap junctions allow for the rapid spread of electrical signals between adjacent cardiac muscle cells, allowing them to contract in unison and produce a coordinated contraction of the heart. This is important for efficient and effective pumping of blood. Gap junctions do not electrically isolate cells, but rather connect cells together. They also provide some mechanical strength, but this is not their primary function. Gap junctions are found throughout the heart, including in the atria and ventricles.

Gap Junctions