Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026

A Choroid Plexus Epithelial Cell-based Model of the Human Blood-Cerebrospinal Fluid Barrier to Study Bacterial Infection from the Basolateral Side
Published on: May 6, 2016
Antibacterial agents in infections of the central nervous system and eye
1University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, USA.
Abstract:
Experimental animal models have provided much information that can be applied to antimicrobial therapy of infections of the central nervous system and eye. The efficacy of an antimicrobial agent in the therapy of meningitis depends upon its ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, be active in purulent cerebrospinal fluid, and demonstrate rapid bacterial activity against the offending pathogen. In ocular infections, topically administered drugs must overcome various barriers to penetrate into the eye, or these barriers must be bypassed (i.e., by periocular or intravitreal injection) for optimal therapy. This article reviews the basic therapeutic principles for the treatment of infections of the central nervous system and eye, and gives recommendations for the treatment of specific infections.
Insights
Antimicrobial therapy for central nervous system and eye infections requires drugs that penetrate barriers like the blood-brain barrier. This review covers principles and recommendations for treating these specific infections.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Experimental animal models are crucial for understanding antimicrobial therapy in central nervous system (CNS) and ocular infections.
- Effective antimicrobial treatment for meningitis necessitates agents that cross the blood-brain barrier and are active in cerebrospinal fluid.
- Ocular infection treatment involves overcoming drug penetration barriers or utilizing alternative administration routes like periocular or intravitreal injections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review fundamental therapeutic principles for treating CNS and eye infections.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for managing specific central nervous system and ocular infections.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of antimicrobial therapy principles.
- Analysis of drug penetration and activity in CNS and ocular environments.
- Synthesis of treatment recommendations for specific infections.
Main Results:
- Efficacy in meningitis therapy depends on blood-brain barrier penetration, activity in purulent cerebrospinal fluid, and rapid bactericidal action.
- Optimal ocular therapy requires topical drug penetration or bypassing barriers via periocular/intravitreal routes.
- Key therapeutic principles and specific infection treatment guidelines are presented.
Conclusions:
- Understanding drug pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics is vital for successful antimicrobial therapy in CNS and ocular infections.
- Tailored therapeutic strategies are essential for effective management of meningitis and various ocular infections.
- This review consolidates essential knowledge for clinicians treating these challenging infections.
Related Concept Videos
Microbiome of the Eye
Bacterial Meningitis
Cryptococcal Meningitis
Inhibitors of Bacterial DNA Synthesis
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
Bacterial Meningitis II: Pathophysiology

