Interstitial Cell of Cajal (ICC)

Specialized pacemaker cells located in the gastrointestinal tract, generating slow waves that coordinate smooth muscle contractions and regulate gut motility.

Key Functions:

• Generates electrical slow waves in the GI tract.
• Coordinates smooth muscle contractions for gut motility.
• Acts as pacemaker cells for peristalsis.
• Mediates communication between nerves and smooth muscle.

Interacting Systems & Components:

• Smooth Muscle (regulates contraction of)
• Digestive System (controls motility)
• Nervous System (receives input from enteric nerves)
• Stomach (found in)
• Intestines (found in)