Cardiac myocytes

Cardiac myocytes are specialized muscle cells that make up the heart. They are responsible for contracting and relaxing rhythmically, which pumps blood throughout the body. These cells are unique because they can generate electrical signals on their own and work together in a coordinated way, allowing the heart to beat efficiently. Cardiac myocytes have a rich supply of blood vessels and contain many mitochondria, providing the energy needed for continuous activity. Their strong, flexible structure enables the heart to withstand the force of each beat, ensuring effective circulation essential for survival.