key term - Cardiac muscle

Definition

Cardiac muscle is a specialized form of striated muscle found exclusively in the heart, characterized by its ability to contract involuntarily and rhythmically to pump blood throughout the body. Its cells are interconnected by intercalated discs which facilitate synchronized contractions.

Related terms

Intercalated discs: Structures that connect cardiac muscle cells to each other, facilitating synchronized contraction.

Striated muscle: A type of muscle tissue that features repeating sarcomeres, giving it a striped appearance under a microscope; includes both skeletal and cardiac muscles.

Involuntary muscle: Muscle that operates without conscious control, including cardiac and smooth muscles