Regulation of Blood Flow and Tissue Metabolism

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to blood flow regulation and tissue metabolism as discussed in the lecture.

Vasodilation

The relaxation of vascular smooth muscle leading to an increase in blood flow to tissues.

Arterioles

Small blood vessels that regulate blood flow and pressure by constricting or dilating.

Vasodilator chemicals

Substances released by active tissues (exercising tissues) to signal arterioles to relax and increase blood flow.

Sympathetic vasoconstrictor nerves

Nerves that tighten blood vessels, regulating blood flow through vasoconstriction due to release of norepinephrine.

Local metabolic mechanisms

Represents the most important means of local flow control.

Norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter that causes vasoconstriction and helps maintain blood pressure.

Blood flow regulation

The process by which blood vessels adjust (constrict/ relax) to deliver the appropriate amount of blood based on local tissue metabolism.

Tissue metabolism

The biochemical processes occurring within tissue that influence the release of vasodilator factors.

Average tissue needs

The balance ensuring active tissues receive more blood while less active areas get enough.

Clotting mechanisms

Biological processes activated in response to blood loss to stop bleeding and initiate healing.