Which tunic lines the lumen of a blood vessel?

Prepare for the Anatomy and Physiology II Exam with comprehensive questions and detailed explanations. Gain confidence with our tailored quizzes and maximize your exam performance!

Multiple Choice

Which tunic lines the lumen of a blood vessel?

The lining of the lumen is the tunica intima. This innermost layer is composed mainly of endothelial cells that create a smooth, low-friction surface for blood to flow along. In larger vessels, the intima also includes a subendothelial layer and, in arteries, an internal elastic lamina, but the essential point is that the endothelium of the tunica intima forms the direct lining of the vessel’s hollow space. The middle tunica media is made of smooth muscle and elastic fibers that regulate vessel diameter, while the outer tunica externa (adventitia) is connective tissue that anchors the vessel to surrounding tissues.

The lining of the lumen is the tunica intima. This innermost layer is composed mainly of endothelial cells that create a smooth, low-friction surface for blood to flow along. In larger vessels, the intima also includes a subendothelial layer and, in arteries, an internal elastic lamina, but the essential point is that the endothelium of the tunica intima forms the direct lining of the vessel’s hollow space. The middle tunica media is made of smooth muscle and elastic fibers that regulate vessel diameter, while the outer tunica externa (adventitia) is connective tissue that anchors the vessel to surrounding tissues.

More practice questions