Glossary of Terms

AV Node
Also known as the Aschoff-Tawara node, the AV node is a group of cells located at the center of the heart between the atria and ventricles. The AV Node takes the signal from the SA Node, slows the signal down and regulates it, and then sends the electrical impulses from the atria to the ventricles. The AV node regulates the signals to the ventricles to prevent rapid conduction (atrial fibrillation), as well as making sure that the atria are empty and closed before stimulating the ventricles.

Related terms: SA Node, Atrial Fibrillation, Natural Pacemaker