Tunica intima: Difference between revisions
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{{DISPLAYTITLE:Tunica intima}} | |||
== | ==Tunica intima== | ||
The tunica intima is the innermost layer of | The '''tunica intima''' is the innermost layer of an [[artery]] or [[vein]]. It is composed of a thin layer of [[endothelial cells]] that line the [[lumen]] of the vessel, supported by a subendothelial layer of connective tissue. This layer plays a crucial role in maintaining [[vascular]] health and function. | ||
[[File:Illu vein.jpg|thumb|right|Diagram of a vein showing the tunica intima, tunica media, and tunica externa.]] | |||
== | ===Structure=== | ||
The tunica intima consists of three main components: | |||
== | * '''Endothelium''': A single layer of [[squamous epithelial cells]] that provides a smooth surface for blood flow and acts as a barrier between the blood and the rest of the vessel wall. | ||
* [[ | * '''Basement membrane''': A thin layer of extracellular matrix that supports the endothelial cells. | ||
* [[ | * '''Subendothelial layer''': A layer of loose connective tissue that may contain a few smooth muscle cells, especially in larger vessels. | ||
===Function=== | |||
The primary function of the tunica intima is to provide a smooth lining for the lumen of the vessel, minimizing [[turbulence]] and [[shear stress]] on the blood. The endothelial cells also play a key role in regulating [[blood pressure]], [[blood clotting]], and [[immune response]]. They release various substances that can cause [[vasodilation]] or [[vasoconstriction]], influencing the diameter of the vessel and thus the blood flow. | |||
===Clinical significance=== | |||
Damage to the tunica intima can lead to various [[cardiovascular diseases]]. For example, [[atherosclerosis]] is characterized by the buildup of [[plaque]] within the intima, leading to narrowed and hardened arteries. This can result in [[ischemia]] and increase the risk of [[heart attack]] and [[stroke]]. | |||
==Related pages== | |||
* [[Artery]] | |||
* [[Vein]] | |||
* [[Endothelium]] | * [[Endothelium]] | ||
* [[Atherosclerosis]] | * [[Atherosclerosis]] | ||
[[Category:Cardiovascular system]] | [[Category:Cardiovascular system]] | ||
Latest revision as of 03:49, 13 February 2025
Tunica intima[edit]
The tunica intima is the innermost layer of an artery or vein. It is composed of a thin layer of endothelial cells that line the lumen of the vessel, supported by a subendothelial layer of connective tissue. This layer plays a crucial role in maintaining vascular health and function.
Structure[edit]
The tunica intima consists of three main components:
- Endothelium: A single layer of squamous epithelial cells that provides a smooth surface for blood flow and acts as a barrier between the blood and the rest of the vessel wall.
- Basement membrane: A thin layer of extracellular matrix that supports the endothelial cells.
- Subendothelial layer: A layer of loose connective tissue that may contain a few smooth muscle cells, especially in larger vessels.
Function[edit]
The primary function of the tunica intima is to provide a smooth lining for the lumen of the vessel, minimizing turbulence and shear stress on the blood. The endothelial cells also play a key role in regulating blood pressure, blood clotting, and immune response. They release various substances that can cause vasodilation or vasoconstriction, influencing the diameter of the vessel and thus the blood flow.
Clinical significance[edit]
Damage to the tunica intima can lead to various cardiovascular diseases. For example, atherosclerosis is characterized by the buildup of plaque within the intima, leading to narrowed and hardened arteries. This can result in ischemia and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
