Answer
Vasoconstriction and vasodilation of arterioles are the main mechanisms that regulate vascular resistance in the systemic circulation.
Work Step by Step
Systemic vascular resistance(SVR) is also called total peripheral resistance(TPR). It is all the vascular resistance offered by the systemic blood vessels. The smaller blood vessels-- arterioles, capillaries and venules-- generate most of the resistance. Arterioles have the major role in regulating TPR/SVR. They do this by contracting or dilating under the influence of local and central systemic stimulation The major center for control of these arteriolar activities is vasomotor center of the brain stem.
