Work

Mechanobiology of the blood-brain barrier during development, disease and ageing

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The blood-brain barrier (BBB) preserves brain health through selective permeability, and its disruption is a hallmark of many neurological disorders. Mechanical stimuli such as shear stress and cyclic strain are increasingly recognised to influence BBB integrity and function, while alterations in tissue stiffness and extracellular matrix composition contribute to its breakdown during ageing and disease. Despite its importance, BBB mechanobiology remains underexplored. Here we highlight the central role of mechanics in BBB development, pathology, and ageing, identify key knowledge gaps, and argue that combining innovative BBB model systems with mechanical probing techniques could transform therapeutic strategies targeting brain vascular dysfunction.

Source: Nature Communications

DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-61888-7

Authors: Simon Konig, Vignesh Jayarajan, Selina Wray, Roger Kamm, Emad Moeendarbary

Institutions: University College London, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, 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: gold

Estimated APC paid: $6,990