for modifying the width as necessary. Variations in the flow of blood that circulates by arterioles are capable of responses in endothelium. In addition to biochemical signals, mechanical forces generated by blood flow influence endothelial function. These forces, known as shear stress, are sensed by endothelial cells and converted into biochemical signals in a process known as mechanotransduction. Shear stress plays an important role in the regulation of nitric oxide production and microvascular perfusion.

Microvascular dysfunction