Heartbeat and Crushes: Unraveling the Influence of Attraction on the Pulse

Introduction: 

In cartoons and animations, the notion of attraction is often portrayed as an increase in heart rate. Sometimes, it is depicted more dramatically, with the heart pumping out of the chest. However, are these depictions accurate, or are they merely artistic embellishments? This article delves into the scientific aspect of attraction to uncover the role of neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine, in influencing heart rate. 

Understanding Attraction: 

Through general understanding, attraction is the emotional response of being drawn to someone, either due to their physical appearances, personality traits, or more. Nonetheless, in terms of biology, attraction is a process that take place in the brain. Research led by Helen Fisher at Rutgers University has revealed that attraction involves the brain pathways responsible for regulating reward behaviors. When individuals experience attraction, significant amounts of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine are released. Dopamine, a well-known neurotransmitter, is associated with feelings of pleasure and satisfaction, while also playing a role in memory, learning, and various bodily functions (Dopamine, 2023). On the other hand, norepinephrine, also known as noradrenaline, is instrumental in fight-or-flight responses, aiding individuals in staying alert during times of stress (Wu, 2017). Fisher's research, which included brain scans of individuals claiming to be deeply in love, revealed heightened activity in brain regions associated with dopamine production, proving her phenomenon to be valid (Landau 2010). However, how does the sensation of attraction contribute to the release of dopamine and norepinephrine relate to changes in heart rate?

The Connection to Heart Rate: 

Recent research conducted by Contreras and others at the Universidad Católica de Valencia highlights the link between attraction-induced neurotransmitter release and changes in heart rate. Dopamine, released during moments of attraction, binds to β1-adrenergic and dopaminergic receptors. β1-adrenergic receptor is located in the heart muscles, and activation of this receptor can lead to an increase in the strength and rate of contractions of the heart muscle, which ultimately increases the heart rate. The dopaminergic receptor is found in the heart tissue and can also increase the pulse.

Furthermore, the release of dopamine can also have an indirect influence on heart rate. Dopamine binds to the D1 Dopamine Receptor in vascular smooth muscle cells, triggering vasodilation (widening) of blood vessels. This vasodilation reduces peripheral vascular resistance, the resistance encountered by blood flow in systemic circulation, and the heart must pump more blood to overcome the decrease in resistance. Vasodilation also decreases blood pressure which will be detect the baroreceptor reflex, who helps maintain blood pressure within a normal range. In response, the baroreceptor reflex stimulates the sympathetic nervous system to increase heart rate to ensure adequate blood pressure and perfusion to vital organs (Contreras 2000). This shows how neurotransmitters can fasten the heart rate both directly and indirectly. 

Conclusion: 

In essence, the process of attraction directly influences heart rate through the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine. These neurotransmitters act on cardiac and vascular receptors, leading to both direct and indirect increases in heart rate. Thus, the portrayals of racing hearts in cartoons hold some scientific truth—attraction does, indeed, quicken the heartbeat. In summary, understanding the physiological mechanisms underlying attraction provides valuable insights into the intricate interplay between emotions and bodily responses. As research in this field continues to evolve, we gain a deeper appreciation for the profound impact of neurotransmitters on our experiences of love and attraction.

Works Cited

Contreras, F. (2000, July). Dopamine and Hypertension. SciELO. ve.scielo.org/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S079802642000000200005#:~:text=CARDIOVASCULAR%20EFFECTS,the%20heart%20rate%20rises%20slightly. 

Dopamine. healthdirect. (2023, October 17). www.healthdirect.gov.au/dopamine#:~:text=Dopamine%20acts%20on%20areas%20of,movement%20and%20other%20body%20functions. 

Landau, E. (2010, February 12). What your heart and brain are doing when you’re in Love. CNN. edition.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/02/12/love.heart.brain/index.html 

Wu, K. (2020, June 19). Love, actually: The science behind lust, attraction, and companionship. Science in the News. sitn.hms.harvard.edu/flash/2017/love-actually-science-behind-lust-attraction-companionship/