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Updated: May 2, 2026
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Combined Near-infrared Fluorescent Imaging and Micro-computed Tomography for Directly Visualizing Cerebral Thromboemboli
Published on: September 25, 2016
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Micro-Embolic Events and Their Clearing in the Brain. A Narrative Review
Kevin Mol1,2,3, Inge A Mulder1,2,3, Ed van Bavel1,2,3
1Biomedical Engineering and Physics, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Acta Physiologica (Oxford, England)
|September 10, 2025
Summary
Microvascular emboli, like micro-thrombi and microplastics, challenge brain circulation. An imbalance between embolism and resolution can lead to capillary loss, micro-infarcts, and cognitive decline.
Area of Science:
- Cerebrovascular research
- Microcirculation physiology
Background:
- Cerebral circulation faces constant challenges from intravascular micrometer-sized particles forming microvascular emboli.
- Potential emboli include micro-thrombi, stiffened erythrocytes, leukocytes, fat particles, air, and microplastics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review microvascular embolization processes in the brain.
- To discuss the acute and chronic consequences of these emboli.
- To explore the mechanisms of emboli clearance.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of scientific literature.
- Analysis of embolization processes and consequences.
- Examination of clearing mechanisms like thrombolysis and angiophagy.
Main Results:
- Embolic events and their resolution maintain a balance in normal cerebral circulation.
- Increased micro-embolic rates (e.g., atrial fibrillation) or impaired clearance (e.g., endothelial dysfunction) disrupt this balance.
- Disruption can result in capillary loss, micro-infarcts, and cognitive decline.
Conclusions:
- The balance between cerebral micro-embolism and resolution is crucial for brain health.
- Factors increasing emboli or decreasing clearance significantly impact cerebrovascular integrity.
- Imbalances are linked to progressive neurological deficits, including cognitive decline.
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