Arterial wall

The **arterial wall** is not a single molecule or receptor but rather the complex multi-layered structure forming the boundary of arteries. It consists of three main layers: *Tunica intima*: The innermost layer composed primarily of endothelial cells resting on a thin basement membrane. This layer provides a smooth surface for blood flow and regulates vascular tone by releasing vasoactive substances. *Tunica media*: The middle layer made up mostly of concentric rings of smooth muscle cells interspersed with elastic fibers and some collagen. This layer controls arterial diameter through contraction and relaxation, thus regulating blood pressure and flow. *Tunica adventitia* (or externa): The outermost connective tissue layer containing fibroblasts, collagen fibers, nerves, small vessels (vasa vasorum), immune cells, and sometimes adipose tissue. It provides structural support and connects the artery to surrounding tissues. The arterial wall is essential in maintaining vessel integrity under high-pressure conditions typical in arteries. Its cellular components—endothelial cells in the intima; smooth muscle cells in the media; fibroblasts and immune cells in the adventitia—play key roles in vascular homeostasis as well as pathologies like inflammation, remodeling after injury, calcification processes leading to stiffening or narrowing of vessels (atherosclerosis), aneurysms due to weakening walls, or hypertension from abnormal constriction[1][4][7][8]. Because "arterial wall" refers to an anatomical structure rather than a discrete molecular target such as an enzyme or receptor protein—and because it encompasses multiple cell types with diverse functions—it is not considered a canonical therapeutic target itself but may be referenced when discussing drug effects on vascular health more generally. > “The arterial wall consists of organized connective tissue composed of cells and matrix fibers that are arranged in three tunicae: intima, media, and adventitia.” [4] > “Arteries are thick-walled... Anatomically... made up of three layers—the tunica externa/adventitia... tunica media... tunica intima.” [8]

Other names

Vessel wallWall of arteryArtery wall