Term Name: | defecation rhythm |
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Synonyms: | defecation behavior, defecation cycle, defecation motor program, DMP |
Definition: | The rhythmic process of defecation that consists of an intestinal oscillator which regulates calcium waves. These waves in turn control a stereotypical, three-part pattern of muscle contractions. In some organisms, defecation can recur with a regularity more frequent than every 24 hours. For example, in a well-fed Caenorhabditis elegans, the defecation motor program occurs approximately every 45 seconds, and is temperature- and touch-compensated. |
Ontology: | GO: Biological Process [GO:0035882] QuickGO AmiGO |