Definition
noun
A network of cardiac muscle cells connected by gap junctions that allows coordinate contraction of the atria.
Supplement
There are two syncytia of the heart: the ventricular syncytium and the atrial syncytium separated by fibrous tissue.
The syncytia allows rapid propagation of action potentials throughout the network of interconnected fibers that when one muscle cell contracts they all eventually contract.
See also: ventricular syncytium
Dictionary > Atrial syncytium
You will also like...
Genetic Information and Protein Synthesis
Genes are expressed through the process of protein synthesis. This elaborate tutorial provides an in-depth review of the..
Regulation of Organic Metabolism, Growth and Energy Balance
The human body is capable of regulating growth and energy balance through various feedback mechanisms. Get to know the e..
Ecology & Biodiversity: New Zealand Flora & Fauna
New Zealand is known for its unique biodiversity, caused by its remarkable geography and geologic history. Breaking away..
Population Regulation in an Ecosystem
With regard to the population size of a species and what factors may affect them, two factors have been defined. They ar..
Examples of Natural Selection
Darwin's Finches are an example of natural selection in action. They are an excellent example of the way species' gene p..
Temperature Regulation in Animals
This tutorial elucidates body temperature regulation. Know the details here to learn how the body sets the body temperat..