It was previously believed that the heart obeys only the autonomic nervous system, which transmits signals from the brain. But new research has shown that the heart has a more complex neural network than previously thought. Researchers have identified several types of neurons in the heart, including groups of neurons with pacemaker functions.
Scientists stated that this ‘little brain’ plays an important role in maintaining heart rhythm, just as the brain regulates movement and breathing.
The research was carried out on the Danio rerio fish, whose heartbeat is similar to that of humans. Using RNA sequencing techniques, anatomical studies and electrophysiological techniques, scientists were able to examine the heart’s neural network in detail.
Source: Ferra
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