What is an "arteriole"?

An arteriole is a small branch of an artery that connects arteries to capillaries. Arterioles play a crucial role in regulating blood flow and blood pressure within the body. They have muscular walls that can constrict or dilate, allowing for precise control of blood flow to specific tissues and organs. By adjusting the diameter of the arterioles, the body can regulate the amount of blood delivered to different areas based on their needs. Arterioles also play a role in regulating systemic vascular resistance, which affects overall blood pressure. Through their interactions with capillaries, arterioles facilitate the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products between the blood and tissues.