The role of pericytes in the regulation of cerebral blood flow (CBF) and neurovascular coupling remains unclear. Using loss-of-function pericyte-deficient mice, the authors report that pericyte degeneration reduces CBF responses to neuronal stimuli and oxygen supply to the brain, leading to metabolic stress, neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration.
- Kassandra Kisler
- Amy R Nelson
- Berislav V Zlokovic
