Blood brain barrier inflammation and potential therapeutic role of phytochemicals

Publication date: Available online 9 January 2020Source: PharmaNutritionAuthor(s): Menizibeya O. WelcomeAbstractThe blood brain barrier (BBB) is a neurovascular unit that protects the brain from peripheral insults, and plays a critical role in regulating cerebral homeostasis. Data have consistently demonstrated BBB inflammation as the hallmark of several central nervous system (CNS) diseases. Unfortunately, the mechanisms that trigger BBB inflammation in different CNS disorders are not fully understood. In particular, it is not known how the BBB changes from a protective barrier to a pathological one that underlies disruptive processes in the cerebral microenvironment. The constantly rising incidence of CNS diseases substantiates the need to investigate the mechanisms of BBB inflammation and search for novel frontiers in the treatment of these disorders. This review integrates recent data that suggest the molecular culprits of BBB inflammation in different CNS diseases. BBB inflammation in different CNS disorders is characterized by specific changes in the molecular architecture of the barrier, but also, share similar pathogenic signaling pathways. Due to their anti-inflammatory potential, phytochemicals may provide huge therapeutic benefits in BBB inflammation and drug development. A better understanding of the mechanisms of BBB inflammation holds promise for identifying potential targets for diagnostics and therapeutics of BBB disruption in CNS disorders.

Source: PharmaNutrition - January 10, 2020 Category: Nutrition Source Type: research