Oxygen starved tissues can release chemical signals into the blood that can change the diameter of nearby blood vessels delivering oxygen and nutrients to the tissues. In doing so, the blood vessels will respond through vasodilation (widening of the vessel). Which muscle type is responsible for this vasodilation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Smooth muscle is responsible for the vasodilation of blood vessels. It is found in the walls of blood vessels and can contract and relax to change the diameter of the vessel. Cardiac muscle and striated muscle are not found in the walls of blood vessels, and skeletal muscle is not involved in the regulation of blood vessel diameter.

Oxygen Starved Tissues Can Release Chemical Signals into the Blood