Role of neuronal nitric oxide synthase in neurovascular coupling

My project aims to unravel how the brain can precisely deliver blood flow to match neuronal metabolism, termed neurovascular coupling (NVC). Evidence suggests that functional changes within the neurovascular unit, which is comprised of the neuron, the astrocyte and the vascular contractile cell, are associated with the development of vascular-cognitive impairment, as well as treatment strategies for stroke recovery in humans. Previous studies have shown the importance of regulating NVC via the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) pathways, specifically nitric oxide production via neuronal NOS (nNOS), in animal work and isolated preparations. However, these studies may limit translation to humans due to interspecies differences, the use of anesthetic agents dulls cerebrovascular regulatory pathways, and isolated models lack input to neurovascular unit. Therefore, this study will provide the first in vivo human data on the role of nNOS in NVC regulation using a clinically validated selective inhibitor of nNOS.

Faculty Supervisor:

Aaron Alexander Phillips

Student:

Partner:

King's College London

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Calgary

Program: