What Are the Three Main Components of the Blood-Brain Barrier?

Discover the main components of the Blood-Brain Barrier and their vital roles in protecting the brain.

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The three main components of the BBB (Blood-Brain Barrier) are: endothelial cells that form tight junctions, astrocyte end-feet that provide support and maintain the barrier's integrity, and the basement membrane, a thin extracellular matrix that separates the endothelial layer from surrounding tissues.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the function of the Blood-Brain Barrier? The Blood-Brain Barrier protects the brain from harmful substances while allowing essential nutrients to pass.
  2. How do the components of the BBB work together? Endothelial cells form tight junctions, astrocyte end-feet provide structural support, and the basement membrane separates endothelial cells from surrounding tissues, working in harmony to maintain barrier integrity.
  3. What can affect the integrity of the Blood-Brain Barrier? Factors like inflammation, infection, and trauma can compromise the BBB, leading to neurological complications.