Vascular Smooth Muscle (VSM)

Vascular smooth muscle is a specialized type of smooth muscle found in the walls of blood vessels. It plays a critical role in regulating vessel diameter, blood pressure, and tissue perfusion through vasoconstriction and vasodilation. Its function is essential for maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis, and its dysfunction contributes to various cardiovascular diseases.

Other names

VSMC (Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells)Tunica Media MuscleBlood Vessel Smooth Muscle

Vascular smooth muscle contracts or relaxes in response to various stimuli, including neurotransmitters, hormones, and local factors. Contraction is mediated by increased intracellular calcium levels, leading to activation of myosin light chain kinase and subsequent phosphorylation of myosin light chains. Relaxation is promoted by decreased intracellular calcium levels or increased levels of cyclic GMP.