What is the typical function of the Bundle of His in the conduction system of the heart?

What is the typical function of the Bundle of His in the conduction system of the heart?

• A. Generating impulses for atrial contraction
• B. Carrying impulses to ventricular foci
• C. Conducting impulses from the atria to the ventricles
• D. Regulating heart rate

Answer: (C)

The Bundle of His, also known as the atrioventricular bundle, plays a critical role in the heart's conduction system by conducting electrical impulses from the atria to the ventricles. This structure consists of specialized cardiac muscle fibers that transmit impulses received from the atrioventricular node. When the atria contract, these impulses travel down the Bundle of His and then into the right and left bundle branches, ultimately reaching the Purkinje fibers, which facilitate coordinated contraction of the ventricles. This ensures that the atria contract first to fill the ventricles with blood before the ventricles contract to pump blood to the lungs and the rest of the body.

The other functions listed are not the primary role of the Bundle of His. For instance, while the conduction of impulses for atrial contraction occurs, it is primarily the sinoatrial node that generates these impulses. Carrying impulses to ventricular foci is more related to how electrical signals propagate through various branches rather than the primary function of the Bundle of His. Additionally, regulating heart rate is a function managed more by the autonomic nervous system and the sinoatrial node rather than the Bundle of His itself.