Arterial myogenic response and aging.

The arterial myogenic response is an inherent property of resistance arteries. Myogenic tone is crucial for maintaining a relatively constant blood flow in response to changes in intraluminal pressure and protects delicate organs from excessive blood flow. Although this fundamental physiological phenomenon has been extensively studied, the underlying molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. Recent studies identified a crucial role of mechano-activated angiotensin II type 1 receptors (AT1R) in this process. The development of myogenic response is affected by aging. In this review, we summarize recent progress made to understand the role of AT1R and other mechanosensors in the control of arterial myogenic response. We discuss age-related alterations in myogenic response and possible underlying mechanisms and implications for healthy aging. • Arterial myogenic constriction requires Gq/11‐dependent mechanoactivated angiotensin II type 1 receptor signaling in VSMCs. • The strong link between mechanoactivation and canonical G q/11 signaling suggests a potential mechanism of vascular ageing. • These insights establish a strong foundation for further investigations on blood flow and pressure in the elderly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]