Vascular

Vascular is an adjective used in biology to describe tissues, organs, or systems that contain vessels for transporting fluids. In animals, it most often refers to the vascular system that circulates blood. In plants, it commonly denotes the vascular system consisting of xylem and phloem that moves water, minerals, and sugars.

An animal vascular system centers on the heart and a network of arteries, veins, and capillaries. Arteries carry blood away from the heart, while veins return it, and capillaries provide sites of exchange with tissues. The vascular system is lined by endothelium and regulated by smooth muscle, nerves, and hormones to control flow, pressure, and permeability. It supports cellular metabolism, temperature homeostasis, and waste removal. Disorders of the vascular system include hypertension, atherosclerosis, aneurysms, and varicose veins. Diagnostic tools such as Doppler ultrasound, angiography, magnetic resonance imaging, and CT angiography are used to assess blood vessels; treatments range from lifestyle changes and medications to surgical and endovascular interventions.

In vascular plants, xylem and phloem form the transport network. Xylem carries water and minerals from roots to shoots, driven by transpiration. Phloem distributes sugars from leaves to other tissues. Vascular bundles organize this tissue in stems and leaves, enabling growth and nutrient distribution. Plant diseases such as wilt block water flow, threatening survival by damaging the vascular system.

Beyond biology, the term appears in phrases such as cardiovascular, vascular surgeon, and vascular tissue. In botany, vascular tissue is distinguished from dermal and ground tissues. The study of vascular systems is central to medicine, agriculture, and plant science, reflecting their fundamental role in transport and homeostasis.