Aging, the metabolic syndrome, and ischemic stroke: redefining the approach for studying the blood–brain barrier in a complex neurological disease
The blood–brain barrier (BBB) has many important functions in maintaining the brain's
immune-privileged status. Endothelial cells, astrocytes, and pericytes have important roles in
preserving vasculature integrity. As we age, cell senescence can contribute to BBB
compromise. The compromised BBB allows an influx of inflammatory cytokines to enter the
brain. These cytokines lead to neuronal and glial damage. Ultimately, the functional
changes within the brain can cause age-related disease. One of the most prominent age …
immune-privileged status. Endothelial cells, astrocytes, and pericytes have important roles in
preserving vasculature integrity. As we age, cell senescence can contribute to BBB
compromise. The compromised BBB allows an influx of inflammatory cytokines to enter the
brain. These cytokines lead to neuronal and glial damage. Ultimately, the functional
changes within the brain can cause age-related disease. One of the most prominent age …
