What Are The Functions Of Capillaries?
The primary function of capillaries is to allow the exchange of materials between the blood and tissue cells. Because the capillaries are so small, these substances pass right through them in a process called diffusion. Capillaries also supply blood to the organs. Strong capillaries perform the vital function of feeding the organ with amino acids, proteins and oxygen – if the organ cells do not receive oxygen, they will die. They also allow for waste products to be received from the organs. They then perform the very important function of transporting waste out of the body. Tissues such as skeletal muscle, liver, and kidney have extensive capillary networks because they are extremely metabolically active and need an abundant supply of oxygen and nutrients. Other tissues, such as connective tissue, have a less abundant supply of capillaries.
