Autoregulation of local blood flow is due to A) the withdrawal of sympathetic impulses to arterioles. B) an increase in parasympathetic outflow to arterioles. C) local factors such as a decrease in PO₂, an increase in PCO₂, and potassium concentrations. D) an increase in sympathetic impulses to arterioles.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Autoregulation of local blood flow is due to local factors such as a decrease in oxygen concentration, an increase in carbon dioxide concentration, and potassium concentrations. These factors cause arterioles to dilate, increasing blood flow to the area. Sympathetic impulses tend to constrict arterioles, reducing blood flow, so option A and D are incorrect. There is no evidence to suggest that an increase in parasympathetic outflow to arterioles causes autoregulation, so option B is also incorrect.

Autoregulation of Local Blood Flow Is Due to