A 3D-1D-0D multiscale model of the neuro-glial-vascular unit for synaptic and vascular dynamics in the dorsal vagal complex

Cerebral blood flow regulation is critical for brain function, and its disruption is implicated in various neurological disorders. Many existing models do not fully capture the complex, multiscale interactions among neuronal activity, astrocytic signaling, and vascular dynamics, especially in key brainstem regions. In this work, we present a 3D-1D-0D multiscale computational framework for modeling the neuro-glial-vascular unit (NGVU) in the dorsal vagal complex (DVC). Our approach integrates a quadripartite synapse model, which captures the dynamic interactions among excitatory and inhibitory neurons, astrocytes, and vascular smooth muscle cells, with a hierarchical description of vascular dynamics that couples a three-dimensional microcirculatory network with a one-dimensional macrocirculatory representation and a zero-dimensional synaptic component. By linking neuronal spiking, astrocytic calcium and gliotransmitter signaling, and vascular tone regulation, our model reproduces key features of neurovascular regulation and elucidates the feedback loops that help maintain cerebral blood flow. Simulation results demonstrate that neurotransmitter release triggers astrocytic responses that modulate vessel radius, thereby influencing local oxygen and nutrient delivery. This integrated framework provides a robust and modular platform for future investigations into the pathophysiology of cerebral blood flow regulation and its role in autonomic control, including the regulation of gastric function.