The Cardiac Control Centre modulates heart rate through which division of the nervous system?

• A. Central Nervous System
• B. Autonomic Nervous System
• C. Somatic Nervous System
• D. Peripheral Nervous System

Answer: (B)

The autonomic nervous system is responsible for controlling heart rate. The Cardiac Control Centre in the brainstem sends automatic signals that adjust the heart’s pace via two opposing branches: the sympathetic division speeds up heart rate and increases force of contraction, while the parasympathetic division (mostly through the vagus nerve) slows it down. This kind of regulation is involuntary and rapid, fitting the autonomic system rather than the somatic (voluntary) system. It’s part of the peripheral nervous system, while the brain region where the centre resides is part of the central nervous system.