Final answer:
The vertebral arteries are the vessels that travel through the transverse foramina of the cervical vertebrae, supplying blood to the brain and spinal cord, and are protected within this bony structure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The vertebral arteries are a pair of blood vessels that originate from the subclavian arteries at the base of the neck. They ascend through the neck, coursing along the vertebral column and passing through the transverse foramina of the cervical vertebrae. Their journey continues as they enter the cranium through the foramen magnum. Unlike the vertebral veins, which flow largely through the intervertebral foramina of the cervical vertebrae, the vertebral arteries specifically pass through the transverse foramina.
These arteries are crucial as they supply blood to the brain and the spinal cord. Together with the internal carotid arteries, they join to form the arterial circle, also known as the Circle of Willis, which is vital in maintaining perfusion of the brain. This positioning within the transverse foramina helps protect these arteries from compression and maintains a steady blood supply to the central nervous system (CNS).