FIGURE 1.

Representation of a standard myography experiment evaluating the effects of IR light. First, the vessel is stretched via the automated normalization process to a tension equivalent to the appropriate mean internal pressure. Second, one HiK exposure is conducted. If required, the endothelium is then removed, followed by two more HiK exposures. Next, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT pre-tone) is added to each segment to elicit approximately 50% of the maximal HiK response. The IR light fiber is positioned over the artery, then the segment is exposed to the IR. Next, the 5HT is washed from the bath, and another HiK is performed. Finally, concentration-response curves are established for 5HT and acetylcholine (ACH).