Differential control of cardiac functions by the brain.
1. The idea is introduced that cardiac rate, contractility or atrioventricular (A-V) conduction spread may be controlled independently by the brain. Limited data from reflex studies are cited to support this view. 2. Evidence is presented that individual autonomic post- and preganglionic neurons have quite specific actions on the heart. Premotor and other central neurons can have preferential actions on heart rate, contractility or A-V conduction. 3. The functional implications of selective cardiac control are discussed.
Salo
Lauren M
LM
Howard Florey Institute and Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
Campos
Ruy R
RR
McAllen
Robin M
RM
D000818:Animals; D001338:Autonomic Fibers, Postganglionic / Q000502:physiology; D001339:Autonomic Fibers, Preganglionic / Q000502:physiology; D001921:Brain / Q000502:physiology*; D001933:Brain Stem / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology; D006321:Heart / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D009434:Neural Pathways / Q000502:physiology; D009474:Neurons / Q000502:physiology