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Updated: May 1, 2026

Evaluation of Cerebral Blood Flow Autoregulation in the Rat Using Laser Doppler Flowmetry
Published on: January 19, 2020
Why is the neural control of cerebral autoregulation so controversial?
Philip N Ainslie1, Patrice Brassard2
1Center for Heart, Lung and Vascular Health, School of Health and Exercise Sciences, University of British Columbia - Okanagan Kelowna, British Columbia Canada.
Abstract:
Cerebral autoregulation refers to the mechanisms that act to keep cerebral blood flow (CBF) constant during changes in blood pressure. The mechanisms of cerebral autoregulation, especially in humans, are poorly understood but are undoubtedly multifactorial and likely reflect many redundant pathways that potentially differ between species. Whether sympathetic nervous activity influences CBF and/or cerebral autoregulation in humans remains controversial. Following a brief introduction to cerebral autoregulation, this review highlights the likely reasons behind the controversy of the neural control of cerebral autoregulation. Finally, suggestions are provided for further studies to improve the understanding of the neural control of CBF regulation.
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