Resistance arteries have been recognized for some time as key factors in
the regulation of vascular flow resistance, where they determine the
regional and local distribution of blood and arterial pressure. Chapters
provide an overview of the physiological, biochemical, and
electrophysiological characteristics of these vessels, as well as a
critical evaluation of the methodologies for studying small arteries and
an examination of the membrane and neural mechanisms involved in the
control of vascular tone.