A bidirectional model for communication in the neurovascular unit

► We model bidirectional signaling between cerebral astrocytes and microvessels. ► We construct a model of stretch-gated ion channels in perivascular astrocyte endfeet. ► Vessel dilations provoke astrocyte calcium increases and membrane depolarization. ► Astrocyte-induced vasodilation inhibits vasomotion via hyperpolarization. ► We validate our model predictions with in vitro and in vivo data.