1. to define the microvascular control mechanisms involved in the regulation of tissue blood flow
2. to explore the functional interaction between local microvascular control mechanisms and sympathetic nerve activity
3. to identify the changes in microvascular structure and function that accompany rapid tissue growth during juvenile maturation
4. to define the mechanisms responsible for increased vascular resistance (and therefore blood pressure) in salt-sensitive hypertension
5. to identify the microvascular deficits associated with high dietary salt intake, and to clarify their underlying mechanisms and functional significance

Much of our work toward these goals is centered on the endothelium and its ability to influence microvascular tone through the release of various chemical factors. These studies are conducted in skeletal muscle and in the intestine, and rely on the use of in-vivo microscopy in combination with various optical and micropipette-based techniques to directly evaluate microvascular function. In addition, we have developed a method of isolating and culturing endothelial cells from specific segments of the microcirculation, which allows us to more rigorously study the endothelial cell signaling pathways involved in the development of cardiovascular disease. These in vivo and in vitro scientific approaches are complemented by our use of Western Analysis to study the expression of various proteins in the microvascular wall, and by state-of-the-art image analysis techniques.

Recent Publications

Linderman JR, and MA Boegehold. Growth-related changes in the influence of nitric oxide on arteriolar tone. Am J Physiol, Heart Circ Physiol 277:H1570-H1578, 1999.

Nurkiewicz TR, and MA Boegehold. Limitation of arteriolar myogenic activity by local nitric oxide: segment-specific effect of dietary salt. Am J Physiol, Heart Circ Physiol 277:H1946-H1955, 1999.

Lenda DM, Sauls BA, and MA Boegehold. Reactive oxygen species may contribute to reduced endothelium-dependent dilation in rats fed high salt. Am J Physiol, Heart Circ Physiol 279:H7-H14, 2000.

Nurkiewicz TR, and MA Boegehold. Reinforcement of arteriolar myogenic activity by endogenous ANG II: susceptibility to dietary salt. Am J Physiol, Heart Circ Physiol 279:H269-H278, 2000.

Sauls BA, and MA Boegehold. Arteriolar wall PO and nitric oxide release during sympathetic vasoconstriction in the rat intestine. Am J Physiol, Heart Circ Physiol 279:H484-H491, 2000.

Sauls BA, and MA Boegehold. Reduced PO and adenosine formation preserve arteriolar nitric oxide synthesis during sympathetic constriction in the rat intestine. J Vasc Res 38:104-112, 2001.