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Setting-up an In Vitro Model of Rat Blood-brain Barrier (BBB): A Focus on BBB Impermeability and Receptor-mediated Transport
Published on: June 28, 2014
In vitro models of the blood-brain barrier
Kaushik K Shah1, Li Yang, Thomas J Abbruscato
1School of Pharmacy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Amarillo, TX, USA.
Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|December 7, 2011
Summary
This chapter reviews in vitro blood-brain barrier models, detailing their pros, cons, and uses. It also outlines methods for using bovine brain microvessel endothelial cells for laboratory vascular research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biotechnology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a critical interface regulating brain homeostasis.
- In vitro models are essential for studying BBB function and drug delivery.
- Current models have limitations in accurately mimicking the in vivo BBB.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of existing in vitro BBB models.
- To discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and applications of these models.
- To detail a practical laboratory method for BBB research using bovine cells.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current in vitro BBB models.
- Detailed description of bovine brain microvessel endothelial cell isolation and culture.
- Explanation of transendothelial permeability measurements.
Main Results:
- Comparison of various in vitro BBB models.
- Identification of key challenges and benefits for each model.
- Establishment of a reproducible protocol for bovine BBB model creation.
Conclusions:
- In vitro BBB models offer valuable tools for research but require careful selection based on application.
- The described bovine BBB model provides a accessible system for initiating brain vascular investigations.
- Further development of in vitro BBB models is needed to improve physiological relevance.
