While the body as a whole ceases to function upon death, certain organs and tissues can remain viable for a period of time after the heart stops beating.
- Skin, tendons, heart valves, and corneas can remain alive for up to a day after death.
- White blood cells can continue to function for almost three days.
This is because these tissues and cells do not require the same constant supply of oxygen as vital organs like the brain, heart, liver, and kidneys. However, it's important to note that even these tissues and cells will eventually die without the proper conditions for survival.