Gastric smooth muscle tissue is like other smooth muscle tissues, a complex network of smooth muscle cells (SMC), interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) and a nerve plexus (NP). In GI surgery, patches of intact tissue are often used to repair organs after resection of damaged tissue. In order to supply the patient with a sufficient amount of proper tissue, it is the goal to find a way to grow a spontaneously active muscarinic controlled smooth muscle tissue. Culturing of enzymatic treated smooth muscle tissue does not lead to a well organized tissue composed of ICC, SMC and NP. After six to eight days, cells change their characteristic shape and transform to fibroblasts and connective tissue. Much better results were obtained when small pieces (1.5x1.5mm), freshly dissected from gastric antrum were hold under cell culture conditions. After four to six days, smooth muscle cells grew out of the tissue, mostly from the corners and cells were orientated in a radial manner. The spindle shaped SMC had a length of 45 mm and a diameter of 10 mm. Longer cells with a multipolar structure (ICC) formed a matrix and a cellular leading structure. Longer and thinner structured cells were orientated in parallel to the SMC. These thinner structures had features of NP. Preparations grown with that "Explant-grow-out-technique" were of robust nature and good results were obtained after 10 to 14 days of growth.Conclusion: Functional growth of multicellular tissues requires leading structures and a sustained stimulus. ICC in conjunction with NP and SMC fulfil these requirements. Results could furthermore indicate that ICC and NP form this environment by secretion of necessary growth factors.