Cardiovascular System

The cardiovascular system, also known as circulatory system, is a transport network extending throughout the body. It delivers oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the body and removes waste products. The heart, blood vessels, and blood comprise this system and establish two main loops, pulmonary circulation and systemic circulation. The heart is the core engine that pumps blood out and receives it back through the contraction and relaxation of the myocardium. Blood vessels act as its extension linking the heart to other organs and tissues, and are mainly categorized into arteries and veins: arteries carry blood away from the heart to the rest of the body, while veins return blood to the heart.

Various cardiovascular system cells play crucial roles. Cardiac cells, such as cardiomyocytes (Cardiac myocytes, or cardiac muscle cells), cardiac fibroblasts, pacemaker cells, regulate heart rhythm and maintain structural integrity. Vascular Cells, such as microvascular endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and pericytes, control blood pressure, maintain vessel stability, and regulate exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste. Blood Cells, such as erythrocytes (red blood cells), leukocytes (white blood cells), and platelets (thrombocytes), carry oxygen, provide immune defense, and mediate blood clotting.