A large number of cardiovascular diseases are accompanied by inflammation. This volume on the molecular basis of microcirculatory disorders gives a comprehensive summary of key steps in the inflammatory cascade. Leading investigators present a state-of-the-art analysis of the molecular determinants of leukocyte-endothelial cell adhesion, mechanotransduction in endothelial and inflammatory cells, mechanisms of cell activation, microvascular apoptosis with applications to ischemia-reperfusion in the brain, the heart and in venous disease, diabetes and hypertension. The book provides the latest thinking in these important cardiovascular problems, with the most contemporary literature and a look at the increasingly complex events during inflammation. Molecular biology tools, microvascular and modern bioengineering analysis are seamlessly integrated into the analysis of clinical problems. The book helps not only newcomers to gain entry into the interesting problems associated with microvascular disorders, but lays the foundation for the design of new therapeutic interventions.