Optimal structure of the microcirculatory bed

Based on the principle of minimum power, a mathematical model of the structural organization of the microcirculatory system is presented. The optimization model minimizes the power expenditure of the heart, bone marrow and the power expenditure in blood carrying. The structure of the microcirculatory bed in the heart, lung and skeletal muscles is considered. The optimal number of capillaries arising from one terminal arteriole is determined depending on oxygen transport parameters. Arterial blood volume as a function of body weight is also determined. Theoretical results are compared with experimental data for man.