What is the Difference Between Myogenic and Neurogenic Heart?

The main difference between myogenic and neurogenic hearts lies in the way they initiate cardiac movement. Here are the key differences between the two:

• Myogenic Heart: In myogenic hearts, the cardiac movement is initiated rhythmically by specialized muscle cells present within the heart itself. Myogenic hearts are characteristic of vertebrates and are part of a closed circulatory system. The structure of the heart in myogenic hearts usually comprises two to four chambers, such as atrium and ventricles, which open and close as the heart beats.
• Neurogenic Heart: In neurogenic hearts, the cardiac movement is initiated by nerve impulses arising from the brain. Neurogenic hearts are characteristic of lower invertebrates and are part of an open circulatory system. The structure of the heart in neurogenic hearts is often sac-like or tubular, and it has ostia or lateral openings that open and close as the heart beats.

In summary, the beating rhythm of myogenic hearts is set by specialized muscle cells, while the beating rhythm of neurogenic hearts is set through nerve impulses.

Comparative Table: Myogenic vs Neurogenic Heart

The main difference between myogenic and neurogenic hearts lies in the mechanism that sets their beating rhythm. Here is a comparison table highlighting the key differences:

In summary, a myogenic heart's beating rhythm is set by specialized muscle cells within the heart, while a neurogenic heart's rhythm is set by nerve impulses. Myogenic hearts are part of a closed circulatory system, which is typical of vertebrates, while neurogenic hearts are part of an open circulatory system, found in invertebrates.