*''Arterioles'' regulate resistance to the flow of blood and therefore regulate peripheral blood pressure. The muscle layer is smaller than that of the larger muscular arteries. Opening or closing of the arterioles directs flow to specific capillary beds. | *''Arterioles'' regulate resistance to the flow of blood and therefore regulate peripheral blood pressure. The muscle layer is smaller than that of the larger muscular arteries. Opening or closing of the arterioles directs flow to specific capillary beds. |