What role does the AV Bundle of His play in the heart’s electrical system?

The AV Bundle of His serves a vital role in the heart’s electrical conduction system by conducting impulses from the atrioventricular (AV) node to the right and left bundle branches, which ultimately lead to the Purkinje fibers. This conduction is essential for coordinating the contraction of the ventricles, ensuring that they contract efficiently and effectively following the atrial contraction. The AV Bundle acts as a crucial pathway that centralizes and transmits the electrical signals necessary for proper heart rhythm and function.

Contrasting with other functions, the AV Bundle of His does not initiate the heartbeat itself; that function is primarily attributed to the sinoatrial (SA) node. It also does not generate impulses in the atria, nor does it have a role in regulating blood pressure directly. Its specific responsibility is to bridge the signals between the AV node and the Purkinje system, enabling synchronized contraction of the ventricles.