Network response of brain microvasculature to neuronal stimulation

James R. Mester, Matthew Rozak, Adrienne Dorr, Maged Goubran, John G. Sled, Bojana Stefanovic

Abstract: Highlights•We acquired in situ 3D two-photon fluorescence microscopy data in an optogenetic mouse model and applied our deep learning-based vascular segmentation and image analysis pipeline to map geometric changes across the cerebrovascular network following neuronal activation.•Following neuronal stimulation, 45 % of all vessels showed caliber changes and only 15 % of the responses were constrictions. The absolute CBV change was the largest in the capillaries and smallest in the venules.•We presented first hitherto experimentally-based profiles of resistance and pressure along brain arteriovenous paths, demonstrating U-shaped resistance and sigmoidal pressure gradients.•The flow increases were greater than local resistance decreases would predict, supporting luxurious perfusion of the activated brain region.