Is a separation of circulating blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the central nervous system (CNS).
A double layer of cells that inhibits substances from crossing from the bloodstream into brain tissues. It protects the brain by slowing or stopping the passage of certain chemical compounds, including some drugs, and disease-causing organisms (such as viruses) from the bloodstream into the brain.
The mechanism whereby the circulating blood is kept separate from the tissue fluids surrounding the brain cells. It is a semipermeable membrane allowing solutions to pass through it but excluding solid particles and large molecules.
A functional, semi-permeable membrane separating the brain and cerebrospinal fluid from the blood. It allows small and lipid soluble molecules to pass freely but is impermeable to large or ionised molecules and cells.
The blood-brain barrier refers to a network of tightly sealed junctions between the cells comprising the walls of the capillaries within the central nervous system. This barrier serves a protective role by selectively permitting specific substances and medications from the bloodstream to enter the central nervous system, particularly the brain. Its impermeable nature ensures controlled access, safeguarding the delicate environment of the brain.