Work

In vitro models of molecular and nano-particle transport across the blood-brain barrier

Year: 2018

Type: article

Abstract: The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is the tightest endothelial barrier in humans. Characterized by the presence of tight endothelial junctions and adherens junctions, the primary function of the BBB is to maintain brain homeostasis through the control of solute transit across the barrier. The specific features of this barrier make for unique modes of transport of solutes, nanoparticles, and cells across the BBB. Understanding the different routes of traffic adopted by each of these is therefore critical in the development of targeted therapies. In an attempt to move towards controlled experimental assays, multiple groups are now opting for the use of microfluidic systems. A comprehensive understanding of bio-transport processes across the BBB in microfluidic devices is therefore necessary to develop targeted and efficient therapies for a host of diseases ranging from neurological disorders to the spread of metastases in the brain.

Source: Biomicrofluidics

DOI: 10.1063/1.5027118

Authors: Cynthia Hajal, Marco Campisi, Clara Mattu, Valeria Chiono, Roger D. Kamm

Institutions: Politecnico di Torino, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Barrier Structure and Function Studies

Subfield: Neurology

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Cancer Institute, H2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions