The vagus nerve (cranial nerve X) regulates heartbeat.
The Vagus Nerve and Heart Rate Regulation
The vagus nerve, also known as cranial nerve X, is a crucial component of the autonomic nervous system. This "wanderer" (as its name implies) has far-reaching effects throughout the body. According to the provided reference, one of the key functions of the vagus nerve is the regulation of heart rate.
Vagus Nerve Key Information:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Cranial Nerve Number | X (10) |
| Name | Vagus Nerve |
| Primary Function | Regulates heart rate, gastrointestinal peristalsis, sweating, and muscle movements in the mouth, including speech. |
| Key Role | Decreases heart rate via parasympathetic nervous system activity. |
How the Vagus Nerve Affects Heartbeat:
The vagus nerve exerts its influence on heart rate through the parasympathetic nervous system. Specifically, it releases a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine at the sinoatrial (SA) node of the heart. The SA node is the heart's natural pacemaker. When acetylcholine is released, it slows down the rate of firing of the SA node, which in turn decreases the heart rate.
