Determinants of heterogeneity, excitation and conduction in the sinoatrial node: a model study.

ABSTRACT: The sinoatrial node (SAN) is a complex structure that exhibits anatomical and functional heterogeneity which may depend on: 1) The existence of distinct cell populations, 2) electrotonic influences of the surrounding atrium, 3) the presence of a high density of fibroblasts, and 4) atrial cells intermingled within the SAN. Our goal was to utilize a computer model to predict critical determinants and modulators of excitation and conduction in the SAN. We built a theoretical "non-uniform" model composed of distinct central and peripheral SAN cells and a "uniform" model containing only central cells connected to the atrium. We tested the effects of coupling strength between SAN cells in the models, as well as the effects of fibroblasts and interspersed atrial cells. Although we could simulate

SUBMITTER: Oren RV 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3009599 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature