Migrating motor complex
Migrating Motor Complex (MMC)
The Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) is a physiological process that occurs in the gastrointestinal tract during periods of fasting. The MMC helps to transport bacteria and undigested material down to the small intestine.
Pronunciation
Migrating Motor Complex: /maɪˈɡreɪtɪŋ ˈmoʊtər ˈkɒmplɛks/
Etymology
The term "Migrating Motor Complex" is derived from its function. "Migrating" refers to the movement of the process along the gastrointestinal tract, "Motor" refers to the muscular contractions involved, and "Complex" refers to the sequence of events that occur during the process.
Function
The MMC is a cyclic, recurring motility pattern that occurs in the stomach and small intestine during fasting. It is divided into four phases, with the third phase being the most active, often referred to as the "housekeeper wave". This phase involves strong contractions that help to clear out undigested material from the stomach and small intestine.
Related Terms
- Gastrointestinal tract: The series of organs in the digestive system through which food passes, nutrients are extracted, and waste is eliminated.
- Peristalsis: The series of wave-like muscle contractions that moves food to different processing stations in the digestive tract.
- Interdigestive phase: The period between meals when the MMC occurs.
- Motilin: A hormone that triggers the MMC.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Migrating motor complex
- Wikipedia's article - Migrating motor complex
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