Figure 2. Reperfusion injury in the neurovascular unit.

The NVU includes neurons, astrocytes, endothelial cells, pericytes, among other cell types. During reperfusion injury, several processes occur to impede microvascular reflow as well as open the blood brain barrier. During reperfusion, impaired mitochondria generate oxygen and nitrogen free radicals that mediate cell injury pathways throughout the NVU. Injury to endothelial cells triggers platelet aggregation and microthrombosis that can exacerbate perfusion failure. Figure reprinted⁵ with permission of Sage Publications.