Home > Popular Themes > Human Body
Heart muscle, confocal light micrograph
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Heart muscle, confocal light micrograph
Heart muscle. Confocal light micrograph of a section through cardiac (heart) muscle. Cardiac muscle consists of branching elongated muscle cells, called myocytes (stained with green fluorescent protein), which form fibres. Myocytes consist of microfilaments of the contractile proteins actin and myosin, and a centrally located nucleus (blue). Calcium-binding protein is stained red. Calcium is essential for signalling between the nerves and muscle fibres, and for the contraction of the muscle fibres. Cardiac muscle is myogenic, it can cause its own contraction without any other input. A blood vessel (oval) is seen at centre left
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 1697839
© C.J.GUERIN, PhD, MRC TOXICOLOGY UNIT/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Actin Automatic Cardiac Cardiology Confocal Light Micrograph Contractile Fibre Fibres Fluorescence Fluorescent Green Fluorescent Protein Histological Histology Immunofluorescence Immunofluorescent Involuntary Magnified Image Microfilaments Microscopic Subjects Muscles Myocardium Myofibril Myofibrils Myosin Nuclei Nucleus Sarcomere Sarcomeres Stain Stained Striated Unit Light Micrograph Light Microscope Myocyte Section Sectioned
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Science Photo Library
> Specialist Imaging
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of the heart muscle at a microscopic level. Taken through a confocal light microscope, it reveals the complex structure of cardiac muscle fibers, known as myocytes. These elongated and branching cells are stained with green fluorescent protein, allowing us to appreciate their unique form. The myocytes consist of microfilaments made up of contractile proteins called actin and myosin, which enable the contraction of the muscle fibers. At the center of each myocyte lies a nucleus, depicted in striking blue. The red staining highlights calcium-binding protein, emphasizing its crucial role in signaling between nerves and muscle fibers, as well as facilitating muscle contractions. What makes cardiac muscles remarkable is their ability to initiate contractions independently without external stimulation; they are inherently myogenic. This image also captures a blood vessel positioned prominently on the left side. Through this magnified image captured by Science Photo Library's advanced technology, we gain insight into cardiology and histology—the study of tissues—shedding light on our understanding of how our hearts function at a cellular level. It serves as a reminder that even within our bodies' most vital organs lie hidden wonders waiting to be explored and appreciated for their extraordinary complexity.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
