The Human Brain Circulation offers an original, up-to-date synthesis and summary of our current knowledge of the cerebrovascular circulatory system, with special emphasis on the study of isolated vessels. The contributors describe the normal vasculature and the many complex changes that occur with age and disease. Fetal and newborn circulation is also addressed. In areas where knowledge of human vessels is deficient, research on animal tissues is included. The book is significant because it challenges some of the traditional assumptions based on animal studies of the mechanisms that control human brain vasculature and presents a contemporary view that includes the role of shear stress and intravascular pressure on the arterial circulation. Among the topics discussed are the receptors for vasoactive substances; the molecular aspects of endothelial function in hemostasis; inflammation and thrombosis; the effect of hypertension; the pathophysiology of vasospasm, ischemia, and reperfusion; and the actions of free radicals. Techniques for the in vivo study of cerebrovascular dysfunction are also described. The Human Brain Circulation presents a definitive understanding of this centrally important vascular bed and clearly defines the future direction for research into human cerebrovascular disease and its treatment.