PURKINJE FIBERS Meaning and
Definition
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Purkinje fibers are specialized cardiac muscle fibers that play a pivotal role in the transmission of electrical impulses in the heart. Named after the Czech anatomist Jan Evangelista Purkyně, who first discovered them in the mid-19th century, these fibers are long strands of modified cardiac cells that are found within the endocardium, the inner lining of the heart's ventricles.
Functionally, Purkinje fibers are responsible for rapidly propagating electrical signals from the Bundle of His into the ventricles, aiding in the synchronization and coordination of the heart's contractions. Due to their unique properties, these fibers are highly efficient in conducting electrical impulses, allowing for the simultaneous and coordinated contraction of the ventricular walls, ensuring an efficient pumping of blood to the body.
Purkinje fibers possess certain structural adaptations that enable them to carry out their specialized function. They have larger diameter and more extensive branching compared to regular cardiac muscle cells, facilitating rapid transmission of electrical signals. Additionally, they contain fewer contractile proteins compared to regular cardiac muscle cells, which reduces their contractile strength, thereby preventing excessive contraction that could interfere with the efficient pumping of blood.
Overall, Purkinje fibers are crucial components of the cardiac conduction system, essential for the synchronized and rhythmic contractions of the ventricles, thereby facilitating proper cardiac function and blood circulation throughout the body.
Common Misspellings for PURKINJE FIBERS
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Etymology of PURKINJE FIBERS
The word "Purkinje fibers" is named after the Czech anatomist Jan Evangelista Purkyně. Jan Purkyně was a prominent figure in the field of physiology and histology during the 19th century, and he is especially known for his studies on the nervous and circulatory systems.
In the case of Purkinje fibers, they were discovered by a different scientist named Heinrich His, Sr. However, His named them after Purkyně as a tribute to his earlier work on the nervous system. Purkinje fibers are specialized muscle fibers found in the heart's ventricles that conduct electrical impulses, allowing for coordinated contraction of the heart.
Thus, the word "Purkinje fibers" is a way to honor Jan Evangelista Purkyně for his contributions to the field of anatomy and physiology.
Similar spelling word for PURKINJE FIBERS
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