The development of the conduction system in the mouse embryo heart: IV. Differentiation of the atrioventricular conduction system

S Virágh, CE Challice - Developmental biology, 1982 - Elsevier
S Virágh, CE Challice
Developmental biology, 1982Elsevier
The development of the atrioventricular conduction system in the mouse heart has been
studied by light and electron microscopy from the time of the completion of ventricular
septation to fetal stage II, 13–16 days postcoitum. At the beginning of this period the already
established atrioventricular node (AVN) enlarges rapidly into the dorsal AV cushion from the
primitive AV tract, reaching almost its full fetal size when septation is complete. The
development of the atrionodal interconnections is a slow and complex process. The dorsal …
Abstract
The development of the atrioventricular conduction system in the mouse heart has been studied by light and electron microscopy from the time of the completion of ventricular septation to fetal stage II, 13–16 days postcoitum. At the beginning of this period the already established atrioventricular node (AVN) enlarges rapidly into the dorsal AV cushion from the primitive AV tract, reaching almost its full fetal size when septation is complete. The development of the atrionodal interconnections is a slow and complex process. The dorsal atrial myocardium develops on both sides of the node, establishing a muscular overlay over its proximal aspect, and also incorporating the former AV tract. At this time also, the developing muscular interatrial septum grows downward to establish contact with the node, the sinus venosus, and the myocardium of the right and left atrial walls. The distally proceeding differentiation of the ab initio continuous conduction pathway along the AVN, His bundle, and bundle branches demonstrates a progressive and sequential development of high cellular glycogen content. Progressive isolation of the atrioventricular conduction system leading to (still incomplete) insulation by connective tissue, has been observed.
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