Part A Although there are no sarcomeres, smooth muscle still possesses thick and thin filaments. Submit Request Answer < Return to Assignment Provide Feedback.

Smooth muscle, unlike its striated counterparts, has a unique arrangement of thick and thin filaments that crisscross throughout the cell. This structure allows smooth muscle to contract more uniformly and produce sustained contractions without the need for the organized bundles found in skeletal and cardiac muscles. It's fascinating how the absence of sarcomeres doesn’t hinder its ability to perform crucial functions – just think how your gut or blood vessels continuously work! In terms of real-world application, smooth muscle plays a vital role in many bodily processes. From peristalsis in your digestive tract to regulating blood vessel diameter, the contractions of smooth muscle help maintain essential body functions. This muscle type also responds to various stimuli, including hormones, which means it can adapt quickly to the body's needs – like when you’re chasing after that ice cream truck!