Cardiovascular and microcirculatory system

The cardiovascular and microcirculatory system is a complex physiological network consisting of the heart and blood vessels, including arteries, veins, and the microvasculature (arterioles, capillaries, and venules) (StatPearls, 2023). Its primary role is the systemic delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues and the removal of metabolic waste products like carbon dioxide (NIH, 2022). The microcirculation is specifically responsible for the exchange of gases and solutes and plays a vital role in regulating peripheral vascular resistance (PubMed, PMID: 30133340). Pathological changes in this system, such as endothelial dysfunction or atherosclerosis, are fundamental to the development of cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension and heart failure (WHO, 2021). While the system itself is not a single molecular target, it contains numerous specific targets—such as the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), beta-adrenergic receptors, and calcium channels—that are modulated by drugs to manage hemodynamic stability and vascular health (PubChem, 2024).

Other names

Circulatory systemVascular systemMicrovasculatureCardiovascular system

Drugs modulate the cardiovascular and microcirculatory system by interacting with specific molecular targets such as G protein-coupled receptors (e.g., adrenergic receptors), ion channels (e.g., calcium channels), and enzymes (e.g., ACE) to regulate heart rate, contractility, and vascular resistance.