The collaterome: A novel conceptual framework of systems biology in cerebrovascular disorders

Abstract

The collaterome is the elaborate neurovascular architecture within the brain that regulates and determines the compensatory ability, response, and outcome of cerebrovascular pathophysiology. Based on the fundamental aspects of the cerebral collateral circulation, this model provides a conceptual framework or novel approach to cerebrovascular disorders that endorses systems biology rather than traditional reductionism. The nature of this holistic approach mirrors the innate or endogenous compensatory ability of collaterals, extending this concept to reconsider current approaches to cerebrovascular disorders. The distinction of asymptomatic and symptomatic physiology, and normal brain health versus cerebrovascular disease and the management of cerebrovascular disorders from diagnosis to therapeutic strategies may be reconsidered from this conceptual framework that builds upon established knowledge in the stroke literature.

Keywords

• Collaterals
• imaging
• stroke