Contents



Preface

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the two main causes of death in the world are directly related to cardiovascular system disorders, ischemic heart disease, and stroke. Clinical evidence demonstrates the relevance of knowledge about vascular biology, from molecular mechanisms to clinical applications.

This book includes chapters that describe mechanisms of vascular regulation, pathophysiological evidence of vascular diseases, and some clinical application microvascular surgery. Related to molecular mechanisms of regulation of vascular function, the book is focused on nitric oxide signaling and the activity of potassium channels. Both mechanisms are related to the function of the endothelial cells, a key cell-type in the homeostasis of the vascular system. Also reviewed is the effect of physical activity and insulin on endothelial function, as an essential physiological

In relation to vascular diseases, the second section of the book covers the disease of coronary arteries, mainly related with structural alteration, and also the alterations of the vascular system in systemic sclerosis, an autoimmune disease that affects several organs. This section includes two chapters related to vasculitis, which is the inflammation of blood vessels. The first chapter focuses on the pathophysiology and clinical characteristics and the second chapters describes the pharmacological

The third section of the book is focused on the microvasculature, mainly centered

important in the evaluation of patients with rheumatic spectrum diseases. Finally, the last chapter presents a review of critical steps and recommendations for the transplant of microvascular tissues for improvement of functional and aesthetic

This book is an international effort of collaboration, with the purpose to create an academic tool for students of medical sciences or people interested in learning about vascular biology. I invite the readers to enjoy the chapters and contact the

**Marcelo González**

Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Concepción,

Chile

Laboratorio de Investigación Materno-Fetal (LIMaF),

Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología,

in the nail fold capillaroscopy, a simple, low-cost method that is extremely

factor to maintain the vascular health.

results in microvascular surgery.

authors in the case of needing more information.

treatments.
