The heart has a “little brain” that protects against stress0

• SCIENCE, Science / Health, Science Mission Directorate, scientists, Space, Space Communications & Navigation Program, Space Launch System (SLS), Space Telescope, space-x-ipo, SpaceX
• July 26, 2026

One set of neurons helps the heart (pictured, a mouse’s heart) keep beating steadily, and another set buffers the heartbeat against acute stress.Credit: Steve Gschmeissner/SPL Each heartbeat is choreographed not only by the brain but also by a mysterious nervous system embedded in the heart itself. Now, scientists studying mice have begun to unravel how