Nerve growth in cardiac muscle

The failure of reinnervation after cardiac transplantation is probably a consequence of scar formation at the suture lines. However, it must be established whether there are any intrinsic properties of the muscle that prevent reinnervation. This is examined in experimental peripheral nerve implants using cardiac muscle isografts. The results show extensive growth of regenerating axons into the implanted cardiac muscle. It is therefore unlikely that the failure of reinnervation depends upon the physical or chemical properties of the muscle itself.