What are the Key Components of the Blood Vessel Wall?
The wall of a blood vessel comprises three main layers: the tunica intima, tunica media, and tunica externa. The tunica intima is the innermost layer, consisting of endothelial cells that provide a smooth lining for blood flow. The tunica media is the middle layer, composed of smooth muscle cells and elastic fibers, which regulate the diameter of the vessel. The tunica externa is the outermost layer, made up of connective tissue that provides structural support.
