In embryological development, the heart forms from the embryonic tissue called mesoderm (the middle body), which migrate inward and to the centre of the embryo as the yoke sack of the endoderm (the front body) are drawn inward. It draws with it a membrane and the brain and amniotic cavity of the ectoderm (back body). As the embryo unfolds, it draws the brain away from the heart and the membrane. The membrane continues its journey around down and inwards and develops into the diaphragm. In the development of the helical heart shape, the heart moves down and right, and inwards and left, spiralling on itself to create the helical shape. In part, the diaphragmatic surface (inferior surface ) of the heart remains connected to the central tendon and a small part of the left muscular portion of the diaphragm.
Once fully developed, the heart, as a muscular pump, will provide the necessary force to circulate blood to all the tissues in the body. The heart's function is to pump the blood that supplies oxygen and nutrients and removes metabolic waste products from the tissues. The normal adult heart pumps approximately 5 litres of blood every minute. If the heart loses its pumping effectiveness for just a few minutes, the individual’s life will be in danger.