What is the function of the Endocardial Cushions in cardiac development?

The endocardial cushions play a crucial role in cardiac development, specifically in the separation of the atria and ventricles. During embryonic development, these cushions form from mesenchymal tissue and are essential in creating the partitioning of the heart into its four chambers. They contribute to the formation of the interatrial septum, the interventricular septum, and the atrioventricular valves. This separation is vital for the proper routing of blood flow, allowing oxygenated and deoxygenated blood to be effectively segregated into the designated chambers of the heart, ensuring efficient circulation.

By properly dividing the heart chambers, endocardial cushions directly facilitate the functional anatomy of the heart, enabling it to perform its role in the circulatory system. This functional anatomy is foundational for normal cardiac operations and overall cardiovascular health.