EN
The aim of the study was to determine if any sphincter-like areas are present in the gastrointestinal tract arteries of domestic cattle, and to establish their morphology and topography. It was achieved by analysing the celiac trunks of seven cows. By the means of a light microscopy evaluation, thickenings in the tunica media of the celiac artery and its primary branches were detected. Having determined their topography, a histometric measurement was carried out and encompassed the thickness of the tunica media, the number of circular layers of muscular cells and elastic fibres at the thickest point of the vessel and above it. Electron microscopy of the thickenings demonstrated at least three types of cells: fibroblast-like, typical myoblasts oriented perpendicularly to deeper-situated myocytes and cells with smooth muscle-cell characteristics, as well as numerous centres of elastin and collagen.