5. Describe the structure and function of the three major layers (and any sublayers that make up the structure of arteries and veins.
Tunica Intima:-
Endothelium: A layer of pavement endothelium with nuclei that are clearly round or oval and have polygonal, oval or fusy form shaped cells.
Subendothelium: This layer is made up of branching cells interspersed throughout fragile connective tissue in the tissues interstices.
Internal elastic lamina: An Elastic layer, also known as a fenestrated layer is made up of a membrane containing an Elastic fibre network with a primary longitudinal orientation and small elongated opening or perforations that can be seen under a microscope and give the layer a fenestrated look.
Tunica Media:-
Smooth Muscle: Smooth muscle fibres are organised in lamellae and distributed radially around the vessel. The amount of these lamellae varies depending on the size of the vessel.
External elastic lamina: Elastic fibres travel through the smooth muscle bundles and connect these lamellae to one another.
Tunica Externa:-
Collagen and Elastic fibres are combined to form the loose connective tissue that makes up the tunica externa.
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