Histology of Muscles: Smooth Muscle Properties and Histological Identification

Smooth muscle is an essential component of the human body, found in the walls of organs and blood vessels. Unlike skeletal muscle, it is involuntary and lacks striations.

Structure and Function

Smooth muscle fibers are spindle-shaped with a centrally located nucleus. They contract slowly but can sustain prolonged contractions.

Histological Identification

• Elongated, fusiform-shaped cells
• Single, centrally located nucleus
• Lack of striations
• Presence in tubular structures such as the intestines and blood vessels

Physiological Properties

These muscles exhibit plasticity, allowing them to stretch and maintain tension over extended periods.

Clinical Significance

Pathological conditions such as hypertension involve dysfunction of smooth muscle in blood vessel walls, leading to increased vascular resistance.