arterioles

Arterioles are small blood vessels that branch off from larger arteries and lead into capillaries. They help regulate blood flow and pressure by constricting or dilating, controlled by signals from the nervous system and hormones. This regulation ensures that tissues receive the right amount of oxygen and nutrients while maintaining stable blood pressure throughout the body. Essentially, arterioles act as adjustable gateways, balancing the amount of blood reaching different parts of the body based on current needs.