Blood-brain barrier

The vascular network of the brain forms a biological barrier known as the blood-brain barrier (BBB). The blood-brain barrier possesses a unique vascular phenotype that is induced by neighboring cells such as pericytes, astrocytes and neurons that together form the neurovascular unit. While the blood-brain barrier helps the brain to maintain the specific environment necessary for neuron function, it also prevents most small and large molecule therapeutics from gaining access to the brain. The blood-brain barrier is therefore a major impediment to the treatment of central nervous system disease, and effective delivery strategies remain scarce.