The distribution of arteriolosclerosis along the arterioles in DOCA hypertensive rats

The development of structural changes along the length of small arterioles (mean internal diameter 20-30 microns) was studied in uninephrectomized DOCA/salt hypertensive rats over a period of 10 weeks, by casting the arteriolar branchings in the ileum with Microfil (coloured silicone rubber). Along with a reduction in mean arteriolar diameter, irregular structural changes, manifested as focal narrowings along the arteriolar lengths, developed in the hypertensive animals, becoming most marked after 8-10 weeks. The severity of the changes appeared to be related to both the level and duration of the hypertension. The irregular nature of the changes is difficult to account for on the basis of any direct local pressure effect.