What structures in smooth muscle fibers act like the Z-discs of skeletal and cardiac muscle fibers?
Answer (2)
In smooth muscle fibers, the structures that mimic the function of Z-discs in skeletal and cardiac muscles are called dense bodies. These dense bodies anchor actin filaments, helping facilitate muscle contraction, but they differ in their organization compared to Z-discs. This arrangement allows smooth muscle to contract effectively without the striated appearance seen in other muscle types. ;
Dense bodies in smooth muscle fibers act like Z-discs in striated muscles by anchoring actin filaments. Unlike Z-discs, dense bodies do not create a striated appearance, but they facilitate muscle contraction through a more random filament arrangement. This allows smooth muscle to perform critical functions without the regular structure seen in skeletal and cardiac muscles.
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