Heart valves play a crucial role in the cardiovascular system by regulating blood flow through the heart's chambers. The human heart has four main valves:

1. Aortic Valve: Located between the left ventricle and the aorta, this valve opens to allow oxygen-rich blood to leave the heart and enter the aorta, from where it is distributed throughout the body. It then closes to prevent blood from flowing back into the heart.
2. Mitral Valve: Situated between the left atrium and the left ventricle, the mitral valve opens to allow blood to flow from the left atrium into the left ventricle. It closes when the left ventricle contracts, preventing backflow into the atrium.
3. Pulmonary Valve: This valve is found between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery. It opens to allow deoxygenated blood to flow from the right ventricle into the pulmonary artery, which carries it to the lungs for oxygenation. It then closes to prevent blood from returning to the heart.
4. Tricuspid Valve: Located between the right atrium and the right ventricle, the tricuspid valve opens to allow deoxygenated blood to flow from the right atrium to the right ventricle. It closes to prevent backflow of blood to the atrium when the ventricle contracts.

These valves ensure that blood flows in a forward direction and doesn't back up or pool in the heart. They operate through a delicate mechanism of flaps (cusps or leaflets) that open and close with each heartbeat. Problems with these valves, such as stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage), can significantly impact heart function and overall health. Treatment for valve disorders varies from medication to surgical interventions, including valve repair or replacement. Regular cardiac check-ups and monitoring are essential for maintaining heart health, especially for individuals with known valve conditions.