Studying the neurovascular unit: an improved blood-brain barrier model

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) closely interacts with the neuronal parenchyma in vivo. To replicate this interdependence in vitro, we established a murine coculture model composed of brain endothelial cell (BEC) monolayers with cortical organotypic slice cultures. The morphology of cell types, expression of tight junctions, formation of reactive oxygen species, caspase-3 activity in BECs, and alterations of electrical resistance under physiologic and pathophysiological conditions were investigated. This new BBB model allows the application of techniques such as laser scanning confocal microscopy, immunohistochemistry, fluorescent live cell imaging, and electrical cell substrate impedance sensing in real time for studying the dynamics of BBB function under defined conditions.