Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart2h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

19. The Blood Vessels

Capillaries

Anatomy & Physiology

19. The Blood Vessels

Capillaries

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Multiple Choice

The presence of __________ stabilizes the wall of capillaries.

pericytes

valves

elastic fibers

gap junctions

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Verified step by step guidance

Begin by understanding the structure and function of capillaries. Capillaries are the smallest blood vessels in the body, responsible for the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products between blood and tissues.

Consider the role of pericytes. Pericytes are cells that wrap around the endothelial cells of capillaries and venules. They play a crucial role in stabilizing the capillary walls, regulating blood flow, and maintaining the blood-brain barrier.

Evaluate the function of valves. Valves are typically found in veins, not capillaries, and they prevent the backflow of blood. They do not stabilize capillary walls.

Examine the role of elastic fibers. Elastic fibers provide elasticity and resilience to blood vessels, but they are more prominent in larger arteries and veins rather than capillaries.

Understand the function of gap junctions. Gap junctions facilitate communication between cells but do not directly contribute to the structural stability of capillary walls.