Slow waves are
A) cycles of smooth muscle contraction and relaxation.
B) spontaneous cycles of depolarization and repolarization.
C) reflexes that originate and are integrated in the enteric nervous system.
D) peristaltic contractions.
E) segmental contractions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Slow waves are spontaneous cycles of depolarization and repolarization, which originate from the interstitial cells of Cajal in the smooth muscle layer of the gastrointestinal tract. These waves set the basic rhythm for smooth muscle contractions but do not directly cause muscle contraction. Rather, they modulate the frequency and strength of muscle contractions, which are influenced by neural and hormonal factors.

Slow Waves Are