Faculty of Medicine, International School, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
Department of Physiology, Basic Medical and Public Health School, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
Cells. 2024 Jan 30;13(3):260. doi: 10.3390/cells13030260.
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a remarkable and intricate barrier that controls the exchange of molecules between the bloodstream and the brain. Its role in maintaining the stability of the central nervous system cannot be overstated. Over the years, advancements in neuroscience and technology have enabled us to delve into the cellular and molecular components of the BBB, as well as its regulation. Yet, there is a scarcity of comprehensive reviews that follow a logical framework of structure-function-regulation, particularly focusing on the nuances of BBB regulation under both normal and pathological conditions. This review sets out to address this gap by taking a historical perspective on the discovery of the BBB and highlighting the major observations that led to its recognition as a distinct brain barrier. It explores the intricate cellular elements contributing to the formation of the BBB, including endothelial cells, pericytes, astrocytes, and neurons, emphasizing their collective role in upholding the integrity and functionality of the BBB. Furthermore, the review delves into the dynamic regulation of the BBB in physiological states, encompassing neural, humoral, and auto-regulatory mechanisms. By shedding light on these regulatory processes, a deeper understanding of the BBB's response to various physiological cues emerges. This review also investigates the disruption of the BBB integrity under diverse pathological conditions, such as ischemia, infection, and toxin exposure. It elucidates the underlying mechanisms that contribute to BBB dysfunction and explores potential therapeutic strategies that aim to restore the BBB integrity and function. Overall, this recapitulation provides valuable insights into the structure, functions, and regulation of the BBB. By integrating historical perspectives, cellular elements, regulatory mechanisms, and pathological implications, this review contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the BBB and paves the way for future research and therapeutic interventions.
血脑屏障（BBB）是一个卓越而复杂的屏障，控制着血液与大脑之间分子的交换。它在维持中枢神经系统的稳定性方面的作用怎么强调都不为过。多年来，神经科学和技术的进步使我们能够深入研究 BBB 的细胞和分子组成及其调节。然而，缺乏遵循结构-功能-调节逻辑框架的全面综述，特别是针对正常和病理条件下 BBB 调节的细微差别。本综述通过回顾 BBB 的发现历史，突出了导致其被识别为独特的脑屏障的主要观察结果，旨在解决这一差距。它探讨了形成 BBB 的复杂细胞成分，包括内皮细胞、周细胞、星形胶质细胞和神经元，强调它们在维持 BBB 的完整性和功能方面的集体作用。此外，该综述深入探讨了生理状态下 BBB 的动态调节，包括神经、体液和自身调节机制。通过阐明这些调节过程，可以更深入地了解 BBB 对各种生理信号的反应。本综述还研究了 BBB 完整性在多种病理条件下的破坏，如缺血、感染和毒素暴露。它阐明了导致 BBB 功能障碍的潜在机制，并探讨了旨在恢复 BBB 完整性和功能的潜在治疗策略。总的来说，本综述提供了对 BBB 的结构、功能和调节的宝贵见解。通过整合历史观点、细胞成分、调节机制和病理影响，本综述有助于更全面地理解 BBB，并为未来的研究和治疗干预铺平了道路。
