Before energy metabolism can take place, brain cells must be supplied with oxygen and
glucose. Only then, in combination with normal mitochondrial function, sufficient energy
(adenosine tri-phosphate (ATP)) can be produced. Glucose is virtually the sole fuel for the
human brain. The brain lacks fuel stores and requires a continuous supply of glucose and
oxygen. Therefore, continuous cerebral blood flow (CBF), cerebral oxygen tension and
delivery, and normal mitochondrial function are of vital importance for the maintenance of …