part of part of smooth muscle cell of small intestine smooth muscle fiber of ileum https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_1000278 non-striated muscle fiber of ileum A smooth muscle cell that is part of the ileum. FMA:15066 The smooth muscle fiber of the ileum primarily refers to a specific class of muscle cells present in the ileum, the final segment of the small intestine. Distinguished from skeletal muscle and cardiac muscle, smooth muscle does not possess striations and is under the control of the involuntary nervous system. These cells primarily facilitate the movement of digested food, a process known as peristalsis. These cells coordinate rhythmic contractions and relaxations, propelling the chyme toward the colon. This process is vital for efficient nutrient absorption in the small intestine and the transfer of undigested material to the large intestine. Moreover, the smooth muscle fibers enhance the ileum's ability to expand and adapt to volume changes without elevating internal pressure, known as compliance. The smooth muscle fiber of the ileum contributes to reflex responses, enhancing muscle contractions to propel intestinal contents in different physiological conditions. This involves intricate molecular signaling with neurotransmitters, hormones, and local signals. Thus, beyond its structural role, the smooth muscle fiber is crucial for the physiological functions of digestion and absorption in the small intestine. (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.) epithelium of small intestine ileum