Under normal conditions, blood flow and pressure in the cerebral microcirculation are precisely controlled to match the needs of the brain. Blood vessels within the cerebral microcirculation are subject to a variety of control mechanisms. This chapter reviews both control mechanisms shared by other organ systems and those unique to the brain. Included among the control mechanisms reviewed are metabolic control, myogenic control, neural control, endothelial control and humoral control. The importance of communication among cells comprising the neurovascular unit in the regulation of cerebral blood flow is reviewed. The participation of astrocytes in cerebral vascular control is emphasized. The participation of cerebral microvessels in inflammatory responses is also reviewed. The unique properties of the glymphatic system are reviewed. The unique aspects of inflammatory responses in the brain are also reviewed.