# Desynchronization in heterogeneous networks due to uniform exposure

## TL;DR

This paper investigates how different physiological responses affect synchronization in a model of heart pacemaker cells, highlighting mechanisms that could be identified experimentally.

## Contribution

It introduces a model of heterogeneous FitzHugh-Nagumo oscillators simulating the sinoatrial node, analyzing the impact of stretch-activated current versus conductivity change.

## Key findings

- Differences in synchronization patterns depend on the dominant physiological response.
- The model distinguishes effects of stretch-activated current and conductivity change.
- Results can help identify dominant mechanisms in experimental settings.

## Abstract

We study synchronization and rhythmic patterns generated in the heterogeneous cluster of FitzHugh$-$Nagumo oscillators with transition between self-oscillating and excitable elements. Such cluster models the sinoatrial node of the heart, and the particular point of focus is the role of different physiological responses to mechanical stress: stretch-activated current and conductivity change. The comparison between them finds the difference which can serve to identify the dominant mechanism in specific experimental situations.