smooth muscle
smooth muscleThe stomach is composed of smooth muscle cells.
smooth muscle, muscle that shows no cross stripes under microscopic magnification. It consists of narrow spindle-shaped cells with a single, centrally located nucleus. Smooth muscle tissue, unlike striated muscle, contracts slowly and automatically. It constitutes much of the musculature of internal organs and the digestive system.
This article was most recently revised and updated by Richard Pallardy.
Citation Information
Article Title:
smooth muscle
Website Name:
Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher:
Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published:
31 May 2025
Access Date:
November 14, 2026