During a peristaltic reflex, what occurs in the segment of the intestine located immediately downstream (anal-ward) of the bolus?
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Correct answer: Relaxation of circular muscle and contraction of longitudinal muscle
To allow the bolus to move forward, the 'receptive relaxation' downstream involves the relaxation of the circular muscle layer. Concurrently, the longitudinal muscle contracts to shorten the segment, a process mediated primarily by inhibitory neurotransmitters like nitric oxide (NO) and VIP.
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