What is the role of intercalated discs?

Explanation

### Step-by-Step Text Solution:

1. **Definition of Intercalated Discs**: Intercalated discs are specialized structures found in cardiac muscle tissue. They are unique junctions that connect individual cardiac muscle cells (myocytes) to one another.

2. **Composition of Intercalated Discs**: Intercalated discs are composed of three types of cell junctions:
- **Fascia Adherens**: These junctions anchor the actin filaments of the cardiac muscle cells to the intercalated discs, facilitating the transmission of contractile forces.
- **Desmosomes**: These are known as macula adherens and provide mechanical strength by holding the cells together, preventing them from separating during contraction.
- **Gap Junctions**: These junctions allow for direct communication between adjacent cardiac muscle cells, enabling the passage of ions and small molecules.
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