Modelling heart beat initiation and propagation using the MML framework

The modeling markup language (MML) framework provides a temporo-spatial level modeling tool, consisting of two representation languages with tools which utilize CellML, a mathematical biological model representational language. The purpose of MML is to encourage reuse, sharing and efficiency. In this study, we utilize MML to investigate the role of the hyperpolarizing activated (i_f) current of the sinoatrial node (SAN), the natural pacemaker of the heart. The i_f is believed to play an important role in heart automaticity and pacing rate. By using the MML framework and CellML specification, we construct a range of models to examine the role of i_f in the SAN as well as aspects of wavefront propagation from the SAN into the atria.