Blood Rheology and Microcirculation

Abstract

Abstract—The article discusses the features of the functioning of the microcirculation system, in particular, modern integrative ideas about the microcirculatory-tissue system, which provides blood supply and regulation of oxygen delivery in accordance with the metabolic needs of the tissue and organ. In this system, an important role belongs to the rheological properties of blood and the microrheological properties of erythrocytes, which act as intravasal regulators of microcirculation and have a significant impact on the functioning of the hemostasis system. In the implementation of the fundamental physiological function – oxygen supply to tissues matching their metabolic needs – erythrocytes play an active role, acting not only as a gas transporter, but also as a sensor of hypoxia and regulator of the endothelial vasodilatation function. The problems of dysfunction of the microcirculation and features of the rheological properties of blood in patients with severe COVID-19 are considered.