The Blood brain-barrier and its role in Alzheimer's disease

Abstract

The blood brain-barrier (BBB), built up by the interaction of different cell types in vessels of the brain, is essential for brain homeostasis. As a gatekeeper of the central nervous system (CNS), the BBB controls the exchange of molecules between brain and blood. In many neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's disease (AD) the BBB show alterations which impair brain function and promote neurodegeneration. As an important elimination route for neurotoxic amyloid-beta (Aβ), the BBB is crucial for the healthy brain by regulating the concentration of soluble Aβ in the interstitial fluid (ISF) in the brain. Here, we discuss the composition and distinctive physiological features of CNS vasculature and the pathological alterations that are present in AD and disturb BBB function.