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Fractures through the myocardium

Small pieces of heart have been mixed, washed in buffer then cryo-protected with 30% glycerol. Contracted myofibrils can be seen in longitudinal aspect. The fracture in places has occurred along the sarcolemma and the positions of the Z-lines (z) and the T-tubules (arrows) are clearly visible in places.
The intimate relationship between the capillaries and the myofibrils can be appreciated from this preparation. The contents of the capillary have a smooth appearance due to the presence of Glycerol.

Bar = 5um.