High resolution scanning electron microscopy of the intracellular surface of intercalated disks in human heart.
The three-dimensional architecture of human cardiac intercalated disks was examined by high resolution scanning electron microscopy of osmium-macerated specimens. This methodology permits viewing of in situ intercalated disks from a vantage point inside individual cardiomyocytes. The erose nature of these structures was rendered in stark relief. Areas covered with clusters of particles were present on some membranous projections--these may represent a combination of desmosomes and fasciae adherentes. On the other hand, areas devoid of particles may correspond to gap junctions.
Tandler
B
B
Department of Biological Sciences, School of Dental Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
Riva
L
L
Loy
F
F
Conti
G
G
Isola
R
R
D022005:Adherens Junctions / Q000648:ultrastructure; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003896:Desmosomes / Q000648:ultrastructure; D006801:Humans; D007365:Intercellular Junctions / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D009206:Myocardium / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D032383:Myocytes, Cardiac / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D009210:Myofibrils / Q000648:ultrastructure*