Neurovascular unit
The neurovascular unit (NVU) is a group of closely related cells and extracellular matrix components that function in the homeostatic response of cerebral hyperaemia.[1]
Cerebral hyperaemia is a fundamental central nervous system mechanism of homeostasis that increases blood supply to neural tissue when necessary.[1] This mechanism controls oxygen and nutrient levels using the methods of vasodilation and vasoconstriction in a multidimensional process involving the many cells of the neurovascular unit.[2] The cells of the NVU sense the neural needs of oxygen and glucose and trigger the appropriate vasodilatory or vasonstrictive responses.[1] Thus the NVU plays a vital role of neurovascular coupling of neural activity and blood flow.[2]
Dysfunction of the NVU has been seen to be associated with neurodegenerative diseases. However, the mechanisms are not well understood.[2]
References
- ^ a b c Muoio V, Persson PB, Sendeski MM (April 2014). "The neurovascular unit - concept review". Acta Physiol (Oxf). 210 (4): 790–8. doi:10.1111/apha.12250. PMID 24629161.
- ^ a b c Iadecola C (September 2017). "The Neurovascular Unit Coming of Age: A Journey through Neurovascular Coupling in Health and Disease". Neuron. 96 (1): 17–42. doi:10.1016/j.neuron.2017.07.030. PMC 5657612. PMID 28957666.