3D Model of the Heart’s ‘Brain’

Scientists create an amazing 3D model of the heart’s nervous system at the cellular level.
Karin Heineman, Executive Producer

(Inside Science) -- Scientists have developed a virtual 3D heart that shows the body’s neurons and their connection to the heart -- a tool they hope will help develop better lifesaving therapies for cardiac disease. According to researchers, this is the first model that has been created to digitally showcase the heart’s unique network of neurons, called the intracardiac nervous system (ICN). It helps fine-tune external signals from the body’s autonomic nervous system to keep the heart pumping smoothly. A properly working ICN is essential for good heart health.

Filed under
Author Bio & Story Archive

Karin Heineman is the executive producer of Inside Science TV.