Information Transfer in Microvascular Networks

Timothy W. Secomb, Axel R. Pries

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

39 Scopus citations

Abstract

The adequate and efficient functioning of the circulatory system requires coordination of vessel diameters and of vascular responses to local and remote stimuli. Such coordination implies transfer of information about functional status and demands to all parts of the vascular system. In the peripheral circulation, blood flow must be controlled locally to accommodate spatial variations in demand. This requires information transfer from peripheral vessels to the more proximal vessels that feed and drain them. Principal mechanisms available for this information transfer are hemodynamic coupling, diffusive and convective transport of metabolites, and responses conducted along vessel walls. Current knowledge of these mechanisms is reviewed here. Theoretical models provide a framework for examining how information transfer mechanisms and vascular responses are integrated, so as to provide short-term regulation of blood flow and long-term structural adaptation of microvascular networks.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)377-387
Number of pages11
JournalMicrocirculation
Volume9
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - 2002

Keywords

  • Conducted response
  • Diffusion
  • Flow regulation
  • Microcirculation
  • Myogenic response
  • Structural adaptation
  • Wall shear stress

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Physiology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Physiology (medical)

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Information Transfer in Microvascular Networks'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this