Which among the following shows that pulmonary circulation differs from systemic circulation?
The vasoconstrictor response of the pulmonary circulation to low oxygen tension is exact opposite of response of systemic aerioles. The opposite effect in pulmonary vessels occurs in order to distribute the blood flow to better ventilated area and be more effective. This vasoconstriction occurs because of presence of potassium gated channel in pulmonary vessels. Ref: Barst R.J., Rubin L.J. (2011). Chapter 71. Pulmonary Hypeension. In V. Fuster, R.A. Walsh, R.A. Harrington (Eds), Hurst's The Hea, 13e.
Pulmonary vasodilation in hypoxia
Pulmonary vasoconstriction in hypoxia
Decreased blood volume during systole
Increased basal vasoconstrictor tone