Vasoactivity
Vasoactivity
Vasoactivity (/ˌveɪzoʊækˈtɪvɪti/), derived from the Latin vas meaning "vessel" and the Greek aktis meaning "ray", refers to the ability of a substance to affect the diameter of blood vessels, thereby influencing blood flow and pressure.
Overview
Vasoactivity is a crucial aspect of physiology, particularly in the cardiovascular system. Substances that exhibit vasoactivity are known as vasoactive substances. These substances can either cause vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) or vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels).
Vasoactive Substances
Vasoactive substances include hormones, neurotransmitters, and drugs that can affect the smooth muscle in the walls of arteries and veins. Examples of vasoactive substances include epinephrine, norepinephrine, angiotensin II, and nitric oxide.
Clinical Significance
In medicine, vasoactive drugs are often used to manipulate blood pressure and cardiac output. For instance, in conditions such as shock or heart failure, vasoactive drugs can be used to increase blood pressure and improve blood flow to vital organs.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Vasoactivity
- Wikipedia's article - Vasoactivity
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