Quantitative estimates of stimulation-induced perfusion response using two-photon fluorescence microscopy of cortical microvascular networks

► First micrometer scale maps of cortical perfusion. ► Demonstration of a high spatial variation in tissue susceptibility to hypoxia. ► Brief (2 s) somatosensory stimulus elicited a mean increase in perfusion of 20 ± 4%. ► Microvessels irrigating regions of lower vascular density shown to have higher flow. ► Local hemodynamics reflect the metabolic needs of the surrounding parenchyma.