Slow wave threshold

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In neurobiology, the slow wave threshold is the potential which must be reached before a slow wave can be propagated in smooth muscle. Slow waves cause no smooth muscle contraction.

A depiction of a slow wave, contraction and electrical threshold in relation to smooth muscle tone and resting membrane potential.

[edit] Gastrointestinal Smooth Muscle

In gastrointestinal smooth muscle, the slow wave threshold can be altered by input from endogenous and exogenous innervation, as well as excitatory (acetylcholine and Substance P) and inhibitory (vasoactive intestinal peptide and nitric oxide) compounds.^[1]