Blood capillary consists of[1993]a)endothelium onlyb)endothelium and t...
The wall of blood vessels (arteries & veins) are made up of mainly 3 layers – the outer most tunica externa has a loss connective tissue, collagen fibres, lymph vessels and the middle tunica media has circular smooth muscle fibres, some elastic fibres and the inner most tunica interna is a single layered endothelium of polyhedral squamous cells. If the arteries reach organs they form arterioles which are thinner and mainly consist smooth muscles and when they subdivide in the tissues they make capillaries. The wall of capillaries are very thin (usually less than one micron) and have numerous minute pores and made up of only endothelium. Exchange of material takes place between blood and tissue fluid across the endothelial membrane of capillaries through active diffusion.
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Blood capillary consists of[1993]a)endothelium onlyb)endothelium and t...
The wall of blood vessels (arteries & veins) are made up of mainly 3 layers – the outer most tunica externa has a loss connective tissue, collagen fibres, lymph vessels and the middle tunica media has circular smooth muscle fibres, some elastic fibres and the inner most tunica interna is a single layered endothelium of polyhedral squamous cells. If the arteries reach organs they form arterioles which are thinner and mainly consist smooth muscles and when they subdivide in the tissues they make capillaries. The wall of capillaries are very thin (usually less than one micron) and have numerous minute pores and made up of only endothelium. Exchange of material takes place between blood and tissue fluid across the endothelial membrane of capillaries through active diffusion.
Blood capillary consists of[1993]a)endothelium onlyb)endothelium and t...
Structure of Blood Capillaries
Blood capillaries are the smallest blood vessels in the body, primarily responsible for the exchange of substances between blood and tissues. Their unique structure facilitates this function effectively.
Single Layer of Endothelium
- Capillaries consist of a **single layer of endothelial cells**. This thin layer is crucial for several reasons:
- **Facilitates Exchange**: The thinness allows for efficient diffusion of gases (like oxygen and carbon dioxide), nutrients, and waste products.
- **Selective Permeability**: The endothelial cells can regulate the permeability of the capillary wall, allowing certain substances to pass while restricting others.
Absence of Additional Layers
- Unlike larger blood vessels, capillaries do not have:
- **Muscle Fibres**: There are no smooth muscle fibers surrounding capillaries. This absence allows for greater flexibility and permeability, essential for their role in nutrient and gas exchange.
- **Thick Connective Tissue**: The connective tissue layer is minimal or virtually absent. This contributes to the capillaries' ability to be highly permeable.
Functional Implications
- The unique structure of capillaries ensures that:
- Blood flows slowly, allowing for maximum exchange of substances.
- The absence of additional layers minimizes resistance to flow and maximizes surface area for exchange.
In summary, the correct answer is option 'A': blood capillaries consist of **endothelium only**. This simple structure is integral to their function in the circulatory system.
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