capable of neurecto-epithelial cell interstitial cell of Cajal 2010-07-22T03:26:00Z FMA:86573 https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_0002088 Interstitial cells of Cajal are unique cells located in the gastrointestinal tract, specifically within the muscle layers of the entire digestive system. They have a distinctive stellate or spindle-like shape and were named after the Spanish histologist, Ramón y Cajal, who first discovered them. The intricate interplay of interstitial cells of Cajal with smooth muscle cells and enteric neurons orchestrates the rhythmic contractions (known as peristalsis) in the gastrointestinal tract. They generate and propagate the slow waves of electrical activity, providing the fundamental pacing signal. Interstitial cells of Cajal are capable of responding to stretch and other mechanical stimuli, which helps in adapting the frequency and strength of peristalsis as needed. They also play an essential role in relaxations of gastrointestinal tract sphincters, ensuring proper control over the passage of material. Moreover, disruption or loss of ICCs contribute to several gastrointestinal motility disorders, underscoring their vital role in digestive health. Lack of or reduced ICCs are reported in various conditions such as achalasia, slow transit constipation, and diabetic gastroparesis. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) intestinal pacemaker cell BTO:0003914 ICC Some argue this cell type is of mesenchymal origin. This is a cell found in the gastrointestinal tract of mammals and serves as a pacemaker that triggers gut contraction. ICCs mediate inputs from the enteric nervous system to smooth muscle cells and are thought to be the cells from which gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) arise. regulation of hindgut contraction