Blood–brain barrier dysfunction and recovery

Summary.  In this paper we discuss the importance of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) as an interface between blood and brain. Many (brain) diseases change the functionality and integrity of the BBB. Mostly this results in increased BBB permeability. Therefore we have studied de various signal transduction routes that are influenced by inflammatory stimuli. The radical scavenger N-acetylcysteine was able to protect the BBB against inflammatory stimuli. Similar results were found following application of glucocorticoids. In addition, it was observed that glucocorticoids and interferon-α,β increased the tightness of the in vitro BBB and when given together a potentiating effect was seen.