Distributing artery

Distributing Artery

File:Artery diagram.png

Diagram of an artery

The Distributing Artery is a type of artery that plays a crucial role in the circulatory system. It is responsible for distributing oxygenated blood from the heart to various parts of the body.

Structure

Distributing arteries, also known as muscular arteries, are medium-sized arteries that draw blood from an elastic artery and branch into resistance vessels. They have a thick tunica media composed of smooth muscle cells and less elastic tissue. This allows them to play a significant role in vasoconstriction and vasodilation, thereby regulating blood flow and blood pressure.

Function

The primary function of the distributing artery is to transport oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body's tissues. They also help regulate blood pressure and blood flow by constricting or dilating in response to various signals from the body.

Clinical significance

Diseases of the distributing arteries can lead to serious health problems, including hypertension, atherosclerosis, and stroke. Therefore, understanding the structure and function of these arteries is crucial for medical professionals.

See also

• Arteriole
• Elastic artery
• Blood vessel
• Circulatory system