Migrating motor complex
Migrating Motor Complex[edit | edit source]
The Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) is a pattern of electrical activity that occurs in the gastrointestinal tract in a regular cycle during fasting. It was first described by Vantrappen et al. in 1977. The MMC is responsible for the rumbling experienced when hungry and is also thought to serve a "housekeeping" role and sweep residual undigested material through the digestive tube.
Phases[edit | edit source]
The MMC operates in a cycle that is usually about 90 to 120 minutes long and is divided into four phases:
- Phase I: A period of quiescence during which there are few contractions.
- Phase II: A period of intermittent contractions due to irregular neural activity.
- Phase III: A period of regular contractions due to maximum neural activity. This is also known as the "housekeeper wave".
- Phase IV: A short period of transition between phases III and I.
Regulation[edit | edit source]
The MMC is regulated by several hormones and neurotransmitters, including motilin, serotonin, and ghrelin. Motilin is the primary hormone responsible for the initiation of the MMC.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
Disruption of the MMC can lead to a variety of gastrointestinal disorders, such as gastroparesis, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD