Compare and contrast the structural and functional differences between single -unit and multi-unit smooth muscle fibers, particularly in regard to their ability to vary their force of contraction.

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Single-unit characteristics: all smooth muscle cells contract as a unit due to presence of gap junctions; found in walls of hollow organs; strength depends upon amount of calcium that enters the cell. Multi-unit characteristics: each smooth muscle cell is controlled independently; found in few locations, including iris and ciliary body; strength depends upon fiber recruitment.

Anatomy & Physiology

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