Past and recent BBB studies with particular emphasis on changes in ischemic brain edema

Abstract

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) functions to protect the environment of the brain through endothelial cells and their interactions with other cells and components of the cerebral vasculature and the brain parenchyma. Alterations in the BBB as a result of injuries (i.e., brain ischemia and traumatic brain injury) play a crucial role in the pathophysiological response. The following is a brief review of the BBB and the mechanisms by which its cellular elements participate in barrier disruptions such as those associated with ischemia and resulting brain edema formation. © 2009 Springer-Verlag Vienna.