Fig. 3.

Potential control mechanisms for the effect of heat stress on the vasculature. Heat stress can be characterized by frequency, temperature, mode, localization, and duration, to determine the magnitude and intensity of the stimulus. Heat alters vascular shear stress, heat shock protein content, autonomic nervous system activity, endothelial cell damage pathways, and inflammation and oxidative stress, all of which are associated with the regulation of secreted vasoactive substances to mediate arterial adaptation.