Abstract:
The blood brain barrier (BBB) is an indispensable structure that maintains the central nervous system (CNS) microenvironment for a correct neuronal function. It is composed by highly specialized microvessels, surrounded by astrocytes, pericytes, neurons and microglia cells, which tightly control the influx and efflux of substances to the brain parenchyma. During aging, the BBB becomes impaired, and it may contribute to the development of neurodegenerative and neurological disorders including Alzheimer\'s disease and other dementias. Restoring the BBB can be a strategy to prevent disease onset and development, reducing the symptoms of these conditions. This work critically reviews the major mechanisms underlying BBB breakdown in healthy and unhealthy aging, as well as biomarkers and methodologies that accurately assess its impairment. Complementarily, potential therapeutic targets are discussed as new strategies to restore the normal function of the BBB in aging.
摘要:
血脑屏障(BBB)是维持中枢神经系统(CNS)微环境以实现正确的神经元功能的必不可少的结构。它由高度专业化的微血管组成,被星形胶质细胞包围,周细胞,神经元和小胶质细胞,严格控制物质流入和流出脑实质。在衰老过程中,BBB受损,它可能有助于神经退行性疾病和神经系统疾病的发展,包括阿尔茨海默病和其他痴呆症。恢复BBB可能是预防疾病发生和发展的策略。减少这些症状。这项工作批判性地回顾了健康和不健康衰老中BBB击穿的主要机制,以及准确评估其损害的生物标志物和方法。互补,潜在的治疗靶点被讨论为恢复BBB在衰老过程中的正常功能的新策略。