Call for papers

The Journal of Physiology

Neurovascular Networks as Master Regulators of Brain and Systemic Health

Submission deadline: Tuesday 1 December 2026

Microvascular networks are now recognised as dynamic, multifunctional regulators of both brain and systemic physiology. Far beyond their classical role in perfusion, they integrate metabolic control, neuroendocrine signalling, redox balance and immune–vascular crosstalk to maintain organ homeostasis. Linked to the meeting ’Microvasculature as a Key Regulator of Health and Disease in the Brain and Beyond’ held in London (April 2026), this special issue highlights converging mechanisms through which microvascular dysfunction contributes to metabolic disease, neurodegeneration, endocrine imbalance and inflammation-driven vascular pathology.

This special issue will synthesise cutting-edge discoveries across cardiovascular, metabolic, endocrine and neurophysiological domains. By bringing together diverse experts and mechanistic perspectives, it will promote cross-organ insight, highlight unifying principles of microvascular regulation and define new therapeutic frontiers grounded in rigorous physiological science.

Topics for this call for papers include, but are not restricted to:

• Brain–Body Axis in Metabolic and Cerebrovascular Dysfunction
• Autonomic–Neurovascular Integration and Cardiometabolic Control
• Neuroendocrine Control of Microcirculation
• Redox and Inflammatory Determinants of Neurovascular Function
• Redox Stress Signalling and Cellular Function
• Cross Organ Microvascular Integration and Future Directions

Guest Editors:

• Dr Joern Steinert
  University of Nottingham
  UK
• Dr Svetlana Mastitskaya
  University of Bristol
  UK
• Dr Shereen Nizari
  University College London
  UK

Keywords: microvascular dysfunction; vascular pathology; metabolic disease; neurodegeneration; endocrine imbalance; inflammation; cardiometabolic disorders; neuroinflammatory disease; redox stress

Submission Guidelines/Instructions

Please refer to the Author Guidelines to prepare your manuscript. When submitting your manuscript, please answer the question: “Is this submission for a special issue?” by selecting the special issue title from the drop-down list.