Vasodilation

Definition

Vasodilation is the widening of blood vessels resulting from relaxation of the muscular walls of the vessels. It increases blood flow to tissues and helps in thermoregulation and immune response.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Vasodilation is a key component of the inflammatory response, allowing more immune cells to reach affected areas.
2. It contributes to redness and heat at sites of inflammation due to increased blood flow.
3. Nitric oxide is one of the primary molecules that induce vasodilation.
4. Vasodilation can help reduce blood pressure by decreasing vascular resistance.
5. Pathogens and toxins can trigger vasodilation as part of the body's innate nonspecific defense mechanisms.

Review Questions

• What role does vasodilation play in the inflammatory response?
• Which molecule commonly induces vasodilation during an immune response?
• How does vasodilation affect blood pressure?

Related terms

Inflammation:

A biological response to harmful stimuli, characterized by redness, swelling, heat, pain, and loss of function.

Nitric oxide: A signaling molecule that promotes vasodilation by relaxing smooth muscles in blood vessels.

Endothelial cells: Cells lining the interior surface of blood vessels, playing a crucial role in vascular functions including vasodilation.