What is the Origin of Vasomotor Regulation?

The term combines the Latin vas (vessel) with motor (mover), describing the mechanism that controls vascular tone. The clinical relevance of "Regulation" is centuries old, but the detailed understanding of the neuroendocrine factors involved is a product of modern physiology.

What is the Mechanism of Vasomotor Regulation?

Regulation is mediated by a combination of local metabolic factors, the autonomic nervous system, and circulating hormones. Endothelial cells release vasoactive substances like nitric oxide (a vasodilator) and endothelin (a vasoconstrictor). Hormones, notably estrogen and norepinephrine, directly influence the sensitivity of vascular smooth muscle to these signals. The central nervous system, via the hypothalamus, integrates temperature and stress signals to adjust overall vasomotor tone.

Vasomotor Regulation ∞ Area

Vasomotor Regulation

Meaning

The complex physiological control system responsible for adjusting the diameter of blood vessels, primarily arterioles, through contraction (vasoconstriction) and relaxation (vasodilation) of the smooth muscle walls. This regulation is crucial for controlling systemic blood pressure, distributing blood flow to specific tissues based on metabolic need, and maintaining core body temperature. Dysfunction in this system can lead to symptoms like hot flashes or chronic hypertension.