Key result
Interstitial cells of Cajal generate pacemaker currents initiated by calcium release from the endoplasmic reticulum and uptake by mitochondria, driving gastrointestinal rhythmicity.
Electric pacemaker activity drives peristaltic and segmental contractions in the gastrointestinal tract. Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) are responsible for spontaneous pacemaker activity. ICC remain rhythmic in culture and generate voltage-independent inward currents via a nonselective cation conductance. Ca(2+) release from endoplasmic reticulum and uptake by mitochondria initiates pacemaker currents. This novel mechanism provides the basis for electric rhythmicity in gastrointestinal muscles.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Sanders et al. (2000) studied Gastrointestinal rhythmicity. Interstitial cells of Cajal generate pacemaker currents initiated by calcium release from the endoplasmic reticulum and uptake by mitochondria, driving gastrointestinal rhythmicity.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: