Autoregulation

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Autoregulation (pronounced: auto-reg-u-la-tion) is a physiological process that occurs in certain body systems, such as the cardiovascular and renal systems. It refers to the ability of an organ or tissue to maintain a constant blood flow despite changes in perfusion pressure.

Etymology

The term "autoregulation" is derived from the Greek words "auto-", meaning self, and "regulation", meaning to control or direct.

Physiology

In the context of blood flow, autoregulation is the process by which the body maintains adequate blood flow to organs and tissues, despite changes in blood pressure. This is achieved through the dilation and constriction of blood vessels, which is controlled by the autonomic nervous system.

In the cardiovascular system, autoregulation ensures that the heart and brain receive a constant supply of blood, regardless of changes in blood pressure. Similarly, in the renal system, autoregulation maintains a constant glomerular filtration rate, despite changes in blood pressure.

Clinical Significance

Impaired autoregulation can lead to a variety of health problems, including hypertension, stroke, and kidney disease. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of autoregulation is important in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.

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