Tunica Media
Tunica Media is a layer of tissue found in blood vessels, specifically in the walls of arteries and veins. It is primarily composed of smooth muscle cells and elastic fibers, allowing the vessels to maintain their shape and regulate blood flow. This layer plays a crucial role in controlling the diameter of the blood vessels, which affects blood pressure and circulation.
The tunica media is situated between the outer layer, known as the tunica externa, and the inner layer, called the tunica intima. In arteries, the tunica media is thicker than in veins, reflecting the higher pressure of blood flow. Proper functioning of the tunica media is essential for cardiovascular health.