Explain microcirculation
Microcirculation is defined as the blood flow through the smallest vessels present in the circulatory system. The smallest vessels are arteries, capillaries, venules and shunts. It also includes lymphatic capillaries and collecting ducts. The vessels involved in microcirculation are lined by flattened cells of endothelium which are surrounded by the contractile cells called pericytes. Microcirculation happens in all tissues and organs except the cornea of the eye.
The structure of microcirculation has three components: pre capillary, capillary and post capillary. The function of pre capillary sector is the regulation of blood flow and this is done by the contraction and relaxation of smooth muscles. The second region called the capillary sector is responsible for the exchange of substance and gas between the blood and interstitial fluid. Then the post capillary sector is involved in the process of allowing the free movement of some substances.
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