What are the characteristics of smooth muscle tissue?

Smooth muscle tissue is characterized by being involuntary, non-striated, and primarily found in the walls of internal organs. This type of muscle is not under conscious control, which means it functions automatically to carry out essential processes such as peristalsis in the digestive tract, regulation of blood vessel diameter, and contraction of the bladder.

The non-striated nature of smooth muscle refers to its appearance under a microscope; unlike skeletal and cardiac muscles, which have a banded (striated) appearance due to their organized structure, smooth muscle fibers are more uniformly arranged. This structural characteristic enables smooth muscle to contract in a more gradual and sustained manner, allowing it to maintain tension over longer periods without fatigue.

Smooth muscle is crucial for various involuntary movements and functions within the body, particularly in the context of the cardiovascular system, digestive system, and respiratory system, emphasizing its role in maintaining homeostasis without direct neurological input.