Slow-wave potential

A slow-wave potential is a rhythmic electrophysiological event in the gastrointestinal tract. The normal conduction of slow waves is one of the key regulators of gastrointestinal motility.[1] Slow waves are generated and propagated by a class of pacemaker cells called the interstitial cells of Cajal, which also act as intermediates between nerves and smooth muscle cells.[2] Slow waves generated in interstitial cells of Cajal spread to the surrounding smooth muscle cells and control motility.

  1. ^ Huizinga, J. D.; Lammers, W. J. E. P. (2008). "Gut peristalsis is governed by a multitude of cooperating mechanisms". AJP: Gastrointestinal and Liver Physiology. 296 (1): G1–8. doi:10.1152/ajpgi.90380.2008. PMID 18988693.
  2. ^ Hanani, Menachem; Farrugia, Gianrico; Komuro, Terumasa (2004). Intercellular Coupling of Interstitial Cells of Cajal in the Digestive Tract. International Review of Cytology. Vol. 242. pp. 249–82. doi:10.1016/S0074-7696(04)42006-3. ISBN 978-0-12-364646-0. PMID 15598471.