THE ROLE OF MICROCIRCULATION IN TISSUE OXYGENATION: INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF ARTERIAL STIFFNESS ON CAPILLARY BLOOD FLOW AND ORGAN FUNCTION

Abstract

  Arterial stiffness, a hallmark of aging and cardiovascular diseases, significantly impacts microcirculatory blood flow, tissue oxygenation, and organ function. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between arterial stiffness and its effects on capillary perfusion and oxygen delivery to tissues, as well as its subsequent impact on organ function. The study involved two groups: individuals with arterial stiffness (Group 1) and a control group (Group 2). Arterial stiffness was assessed using Pulse Wave Velocity (PWV) and Augmentation Index (AIx), with significant elevations observed in Group 1. Microcirculatory blood flow was measured using laser Doppler flowmetry, and tissue oxygenation was assessed through near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Test results revealed diminished blood circulation and oxygen levels in skin together with brain and muscle tissue of subjects in Group 1 compared to the control group demonstrating artery stiffness's damaging effects on microvascular health. The organ function test results demonstrated Group 1 participants displayed lower glomerular filtration rate (GFR) alongside decreased ejection fraction (EF) and poor cognitive performance which demonstrated arterial stiffness impacts the entire body system. The study indicates that stiff arteries result in poor microvascular performance which causes hypoxic conditions throughout tissues thereby creating dysfunctional organs. Arterial compliance enhancement procedures may address capillary blood flow issues and improve tissue oxygenation while sustaining organ function. The results of this study support the critical nature of arterial stiffness prevention and treatment because it reduces cardiovascular organ damage thus contributing to developing research about early arterial stiffness detection..