25+ Intercalated Discs Gap Junctions Desmosomes Gif. Adherens junctions and desmosomes are responsible for mechanically coupling myocytes in the heart and are found closely apposed to gap junction plaques at the intercalated discs of cardiomyocytes. More specifically, the disks join the cells together by both mechanical attachment and protein channels.
They play vital roles in bonding cardiac muscle cells together and in transmitting signals between cells.
Mechanical continuity is provided by desmosomes and adherens junctions, while gap junctions provide a pathway for passage of ions and small molecules between cells. Cardiac muscle cells are joined together by intercalated discs (desmosomes and gap junctions). Mechanical continuity is provided by desmosomes and adherens junctions, while gap junctions provide a pathway for passage of ions and small molecules between cells. The efficient activation and contraction of the heart requires.