What is a precapillary sphincter?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for a definition or description of a precapillary sphincter, which is a physiological structure in the body. It involves understanding its role in the circulatory system and its function in regulating blood flow.
Answer
Precapillary sphincters are rings of smooth muscle that regulate the flow of blood through capillaries.
The final answer is precapillary sphincters are rings of smooth muscle that regulate the flow of blood through capillaries
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is precapillary sphincters are rings of smooth muscle that regulate the flow of blood through capillaries
More Information
Precapillary sphincters play a crucial role in directing blood flow to areas where it is most needed by either constricting to reduce or dilating to increase blood flow into capillary beds.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing precapillary sphincters with other blood flow regulators, such as arterioles or postcapillary venules.
Sources
- Blood Flow and Blood Pressure Regulation - General Biology on Libre Texts - bio.libretexts.org
- Precapillary sphincter - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Capillaries - EdTech Books - BYU-Idaho - books.byui.edu
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