Structure of Arteries

Question 1

What are the 3 layers in arteries?

Answer 1

Tunica Intima
Tunica Media
Tunica Adventitia

Question 2

Describe Tunica Intima

Answer 2

1. subendothelial Layer of loose Connective tissue
2. the thinnest of the 3 layers
3. Deepest layer of an artery
   (the part of the artery next to the flowing blood)

Question 3

Describe Tunica Media

Answer 3

1. smooth muscle cells
2. thickest of the 3 layers
3. Elastic and Type III collagen fibers
4. Separated from Intima by Internal Elastic Lamina *****VERY IMPORTANT

Question 4

Describe Tunica Adventitia

collagenous and elastic fibers

Answer 4

1. Type 1 collagen
   2.Separated from media by External Elastic Lamina
2. Vasa Vasorum
   (farthest from the blood)

Question 5

What is Vasa Vasorum?

Answer 5

small vessels that come from the outside to supply blood to the Tunica Adventitia
(like a mini circulation)