muscle cells, unique junctions called intercalated discs (gap junctions) link the cells together and define their borders. Intercalated discs are the major portal for cardiac cell-to-cell communication, which is required for coordinated muscle contraction and maintenance of circulation.

Where are intercalated discs found?

Intercalated discs are located at the longitudinal ends of cardiomyocyte to form cell–cell coupling critical in propagation of action potentials.

Do cardiac muscle cells have intercalated discs?

Muscle: Cardiac Muscle

Cardiac muscle cells usually have a single (central) nucleus. The cells are often branched, and are tightly connected by specialised junctions. The region where the ends of the cells are connected to another cell is called an intercalated disc.