Theoretical simulation of oxygen transport to brain by networks of microvessels: Effects of oxygen supply and demand on tissue hypoxia

Objective: Simulations of oxygen delivery by a three-dimensional network of microvessels in rat cerebral cortex were used to examine how the distribution of partial pressure of oxygen (Po₂) in tissue depends on blood flow and oxygen consumption rates. Methods: Network geometry was deduced from previously published scanning electron micrographs of corrosion casts. A nonlinear least-squares method, using images obtained at three different angles, was used to estimate vessel locations. The network consisted of 50 segments in a region 140 μm × 150 μm × 160 μm. A Green's function method was used to predict the Po₂ distribution. Effects of varying perfusion and consumption were examined, relative to a control state with consumption 10 cm³ O₂/100 g per min and perfusion 160 cm³/100 g per min. Results: In the control state, minimum tissue Po₂ was 7 mm Hg. A Krogh-type model with the same density of vessels, but with uniform spacing, predicted a minimum tissue Po₂ of 23 mm Hg. For perfusion below 60% of control, tissue hypoxia (Po₂ <1 mm Hg) was predicted. When perfusion was reduced by 75%, the resulting hypoxia could be eliminated by a 31% reduction in oxygen consumption rate. Conclusions: The simulations suggest that tissue hypoxia resulting from a severe decrease in brain perfusion, as can occur in stroke, may be avoided by a moderate decrease in oxygen consumption rate. Microcirculation (2000) 7, 237-247.