Rat Mesenteric Artery Function after Hindlimb Suspension

Study #1: We specifically examined resistance artery function from the mesentery, because vasosonstriction of this vascular bed is important for orthostatic tolerance, and because others have reported that there is reduced ability to constrict this vascular bed after hindlimb suspension (McDonald et al., J. Appl. Physiol. 72: 2210-2218, 1992; Overton & Tipton, J. Appl. Physiol. 68: 355-362, 1990). Vascular function was assessed by measuring responses to vasoconstrictors, a vasodilator, pressure, and flow.