Frog Heart

A computer simulation of experiments which may be performed on frog heart.

An interactive, menu-driven and easy to use program which simulates a number of experiments which can be performed on the 'in situ' heart of a pithed frog. High-resolution simulations of contractions of the frog heart, derived from real data, are presented on a scrolling display to simulate a chart recorder. The trace may be paused to facilitate measurement of heart rate or to assess changes in the amplitude of atrial or ventricular contraction. Experiments include:

• Interpretation of a typical trace;
• the effects of adrenaline;
• the effects of acetylcholine (with physostigmine or atropine);
• the effects of temperature;
• refractory period;
• electrical conduction through the heart (Stannius ligatures).

Each experiment is prefaced by introductory text and includes an experiment guide and assignments.