Cardiac Conduction (IMAGE) Virginia Tech Caption This is an image from a super resolution microscope shows molecules occupying a tiny space between heart muscle cells. In green are gap junction molecules, which provide a low-resistance path for electrical conductivity. Molecules in red are sodium channel beta molecules, which help conduct electricity and glue - as Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute scientists discovered -cooperatively activating sodium channels together, contributing to electrical excitation to spread through heart muscle. Researchers hope to target this structure to develop anti-arrhythmic therapies for heart ailments. Credit Virginia Tech/Gourdie lab Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.