Intima
Intima
Intima (/ɪnˈtiːmə/), also known as tunica intima, is the innermost layer of a blood vessel, lying in direct contact with the blood as it flows through the vessel.
Etymology
The term "intima" originates from the Latin word 'intimus', meaning 'innermost'.
Anatomy
The intima is composed of a single layer of simple squamous endothelial cells and a thin layer of subendothelial connective tissue. It is separated from the middle layer of the blood vessel, the tunica media, by the internal elastic lamina.
Function
The primary function of the intima is to provide a smooth surface for the flow of blood, reducing friction and preventing blood clot formation. It also plays a role in controlling the diameter of the blood vessel, and thus blood pressure and flow, by secreting substances that cause the vessel to constrict or dilate.
Related Terms
- Endothelium: The layer of cells that lines the interior surface of blood vessels, forming an interface between circulating blood and the rest of the vessel wall.
- Tunica media: The middle layer of the wall of a blood vessel, composed primarily of smooth muscle and elastic tissue.
- Tunica adventitia: The outermost layer of a blood vessel, composed of connective tissue.
- Atherosclerosis: A disease in which plaque builds up inside your arteries, often starting in the intima layer.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Intima
- Wikipedia's article - Intima
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