Objective Brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) were found to shift from their usually inactive state to an active state in ischemic stroke (IS) and cause neuronal damage. Ginsenoside Rb1 (GRb1),a component de...Objective Brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) were found to shift from their usually inactive state to an active state in ischemic stroke (IS) and cause neuronal damage. Ginsenoside Rb1 (GRb1),a component derived from medicinal plants,is known for its pharmacological benefits in IS,but its protective effects on BMECs have yet to be explored. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of GRb1 on BMECs. Methods An in vitro oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) model was established to mimic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Bulk RNA-sequencing data were analyzed by using the Human Autophagy Database and various bioinformatic tools,including gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA),Gene Ontology (GO) classification and enrichment analysis,Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis,protein-protein interaction network analysis,and molecular docking. Experimental validation was also performed to ensure the reliability of our findings. Results Rb1 had a protective effect on BMECs subjected to OGD/R injury. Specifically,GRb1 was found to modulate the interplay between oxidative stress,apoptosis,and autophagy in BMECs. Key targets such as sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1/p62),autophagy related 5 (ATG5),and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) were identified,highlighting their potential roles in mediating the protective effects of GRb1 against IS-induced damage. Conclusion GRbl protects BMECs against OGD/R injury by influencing oxidative stress,apoptosis,and autophagy. The identification of SQSTM1/p62,ATG5,and HIF-1α as promising targets further supports the potential of GRb1 as a therapeutic agent for IS,providing a foundation for future research into its mechanisms and applications in IS treatment.展开更多
Background:Our previous study found that mouse embryonic neural stem cell(NSC)-derived exosomes(EXOs)regulated NSC differentiation via the miR-9/Hes1 axis.However,the effects of EXOs on brain microvascular endothelial...Background:Our previous study found that mouse embryonic neural stem cell(NSC)-derived exosomes(EXOs)regulated NSC differentiation via the miR-9/Hes1 axis.However,the effects of EXOs on brain microvascular endothelial cell(BMEC)dysfunction via the miR-9/Hes1 axis remain unknown.Therefore,the current study aimed to determine the effects of EXOs on BMEC proliferation,migration,and death via the miR-9/Hes1 axis.Methods:Immunofluorescence,quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction,cell counting kit-8 assay,wound healing assay,calcein-acetoxymethyl/propidium iodide staining,and hematoxylin and eosin staining were used to determine the role and mechanism of EXOs on BMECs.Results:EXOs promoted BMEC proliferation and migration and reduced cell death under hypoxic conditions.The overexpression of miR-9 promoted BMEC prolifera-tion and migration and reduced cell death under hypoxic conditions.Moreover,miR-9 downregulation inhibited BMEC proliferation and migration and also promoted cell death.Hes1 silencing ameliorated the effect of amtagomiR-9 on BMEC proliferation and migration and cell death.Hyperemic structures were observed in the regions of the hippocampus and cortex in hypoxia-induced mice.Meanwhile,EXO treatment improved cerebrovascular alterations.Conclusion:NSC-derived EXOs can promote BMEC proliferation and migra-tion and reduce cell death via the miR-9/Hes1 axis under hypoxic conditions.Therefore,EXO therapeutic strategies could be considered for hypoxia-induced vascular injury.展开更多
In the current landscape of endothelial cell isolation for building in vitro models of the blood-brain barrier,our work moves towards reproducing the features of the neurovascular unit to achieve glial compliance thro...In the current landscape of endothelial cell isolation for building in vitro models of the blood-brain barrier,our work moves towards reproducing the features of the neurovascular unit to achieve glial compliance through an innovative biomimetic coating technology for brain chronic implants.We hypothesized that the autologous origin of human brain mic rovascular endothelial cells(hBMECs)is the first requirement for the suitable coating to prevent the glial inflammato ry response trigge red by foreign neuroprosthetics.Therefo re,this study established a new procedure to preserve the in vitro viability of hBMECs isolated from gray and white matter specimens taken from neurosurge ry patients.Culturing adult hBMECs is generally considered a challenging task due to the difficult survival ex vivo and progressive reduction in proliferation of these cells.The addition of 10 nMβ-estradiol 17-acetate to the hBMEC culture medium was found to be an essential and discriminating factor promoting adhesion and proliferation both after isolation and thawing,suppo rting the well-known protective role played by estrogens on microvessels.In particular,β-estradiol 17-acetate was critical for both freshly isolated and thawed female-derived hBMECs,while it was not necessary for freshly isolated male-derived hBMECs;however,it did countera ct the decay in the viability of the latter after thawing.The tumo r-free hBMECs were thus cultured for up to 2 months and their growth efficiency was assessed befo re and after two periods of cryopreservation.Des pite the thermal stress,the hBMECs remained viable and suitable for re-freezing and storage for several months.This approach increasing in vitro viability of hBMECs opens new perspectives for the use of cryopreserved autologous hBMECs as biomimetic therapeutic tools,offering the potential to avoid additional surgical sampling for each patient.展开更多
Upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor A/basic fibroblast growth factor(VEGFA/b FGF)expression in the penumbra of cerebral ischemia can increase vascular volume,reduce lesion volume,and enhance neural cell...Upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor A/basic fibroblast growth factor(VEGFA/b FGF)expression in the penumbra of cerebral ischemia can increase vascular volume,reduce lesion volume,and enhance neural cell proliferation and differentiation,thereby exerting neuroprotective effects.However,the beneficial effects of endogenous VEGFA/b FGF are limited as their expression is only transiently increased.In this study,we generated multilayered nanofiber membranes loaded with VEGFA/b FGF using layer-by-layer self-assembly and electrospinning techniques.We found that a membrane containing 10 layers had an ideal ultrastructure and could efficiently and stably release growth factors for more than 1 month.This 10-layered nanofiber membrane promoted brain microvascular endothelial cell tube formation and proliferation,inhibited neuronal apoptosis,upregulated the expression of tight junction proteins,and improved the viability of various cellular components of neurovascular units under conditions of oxygen/glucose deprivation.Furthermore,this nanofiber membrane decreased the expression of Janus kinase-2/signal transducer and activator of transcription-3(JAK2/STAT3),Bax/Bcl-2,and cleaved caspase-3.Therefore,this nanofiber membrane exhibits a neuroprotective effect on oxygen/glucose-deprived neurovascular units by inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 pathway.展开更多
Brain microvascular endothelial cells form the interface between nervous tissue and circulating blood, and regulate central nervous system homeostasis. Brain microvascular endothelial cells differ from peripheral endo...Brain microvascular endothelial cells form the interface between nervous tissue and circulating blood, and regulate central nervous system homeostasis. Brain microvascular endothelial cells differ from peripheral endothelial cells with regards expression of specific ion transporters and receptors, and contain fewer fenestrations and pinocytotic vesicles. Brain microvascular endothelial cells also synthesize several factors that influence blood vessel function. This review describes the morphological characteristics and functions of brain microvascular endothelial cells, and summarizes current knowledge regarding changes in brain microvascular endothelial cells during stroke progression and therapies. Future studies should focus on identifying mechanisms underlying such changes and developing possible neuroprotective therapeutic interventions.展开更多
Long non-coding RNAs regulate brain microvascular endothelial cell death, the inflammatory response and angiogenesis during and after ischemia/reperfusion and oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation（OGD/R） insults....Long non-coding RNAs regulate brain microvascular endothelial cell death, the inflammatory response and angiogenesis during and after ischemia/reperfusion and oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation（OGD/R） insults. The long non-coding RNA, SNHG12, is upregulated after ischemia/reperfusion and OGD/R in microvascular endothelial cells of the mouse brain. However, its role in ischemic stroke has not been studied. We hypothesized that SNHG12 positively regulates ischemic stroke, and therefore we investigated its mechanism of action. We established an OGD/R mouse cell model to mimic ischemic stroke by exposing brain microvascular endothelial cells to OGD for 0, 2, 4, 8, 16 or 24 hours and reoxygenation for 4 hours. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction showed that SNHG12 levels in brain microvascular endothelial cells increased with respect to OGD exposure time. Brain microvascular endothelial cells were transfected with pc DNA-control, pc DNA-SNHG12, si-control, or si-SNHG12. After exposure to OGD for 16 hours, these cells were then analyzed by 3-（4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl）-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide, trypan blue exclusion, western blot, and capillary-like tube formation assays. Overexpression of SNHG12 inhibited brain microvascular endothelial cell death and the inflammatory response but promoted angiogenesis after OGD/R, while SNHG12 knockdown had the opposite effects. miR-199a was identified as a target of SNHG12, and SNHG12 overexpression reversed the effect of miR-199a on brain microvascular endothelial cell death, the inflammatory response, and angiogenesis. These findings suggest that SNHG12 suppresses endothelial cell injury induced by OGD/R by targeting miR-199a.展开更多
Drugs for the treatment and prevention of nervous system diseases must permeate the bloodbrain barrier to take effect.In vitro models of the blood-brain barrier are therefore important in the investigation of drug per...Drugs for the treatment and prevention of nervous system diseases must permeate the bloodbrain barrier to take effect.In vitro models of the blood-brain barrier are therefore important in the investigation of drug permeation mechanisms.However,to date,no unified method has been described for establishing a blood-brain barrier model.Here,we modified an in vitro model of the blood-brain barrier by seeding brain microvascular endothelial cells and astrocytes from newborn rats on a polyester Transwell cell culture membrane with 0.4-μm pores,and conducted transepithelial electrical resistance measurements,leakage tests and assays for specific bloodbrain barrier enzymes.We show that the permeability of our model is as low as that of the bloodbrain barrier in vivo.Our model will be a valuable tool in the study of the mechanisms of action of neuroprotective drugs.展开更多
Post-acute ischemic stroke hyperglycemia increases the risk of hemorrhagic transformation,which is associated with blood-brain barrier disruption.Brain microvascular endothelial cells are a major component of the bloo...Post-acute ischemic stroke hyperglycemia increases the risk of hemorrhagic transformation,which is associated with blood-brain barrier disruption.Brain microvascular endothelial cells are a major component of the blood-brain barrier.Intercellular mitochondrial transfer has emerged as a novel paradigm for repairing cells with mitochondrial dysfunction.In this study,we first investigated whether mitochondrial transfer exists between brain microvascular endothelial cells,and then investigated the effects of post-acute ischemic stroke hyperglycemia on mitochondrial transfer between brain microvascular endothelial cells.We found that healthy brain microvascular endothelial cells can transfer intact mitochondria to oxygen glucose deprivation-injured brain microvascular endothelial cells.However,post-oxygen glucose deprivation hyperglycemia hindered mitochondrial transfer and exacerbated mitochondrial dysfunction.We established an in vitro brain microvascular endothelial cell model of the blood-brain barrier.We found that post-acute ischemic stroke hyperglycemia reduced the overall energy metabolism levels of brain microvascular endothelial cells and increased permeability of the blood-brain barrier.In a clinical study,we retrospectively analyzed the relationship between post-acute ischemic stroke hyperglycemia and the severity of hemorrhagic transformation.We found that post-acute ischemic stroke hyperglycemia serves as an independent predictor of severe hemorrhagic transformation.These findings suggest that post-acute ischemic stroke hyperglycemia can aggravate disruption of the blood-brain barrier by inhibiting mitochondrial transfer.展开更多
Studies have demonstrated that DL-3-n-butylphthalide can significantly alleviate oxygen glucose deprivation-induced injury of human umbilical vein endothelial cells at least partly associated with its enhancement on o...Studies have demonstrated that DL-3-n-butylphthalide can significantly alleviate oxygen glucose deprivation-induced injury of human umbilical vein endothelial cells at least partly associated with its enhancement on oxygen glucose deprivation-induced hypoxia inducible factor-1α expression.In this study,we hypothesized that DL-3-n-butylphthalide can protect against oxygen glucose deprivation-induced injury of newborn rat brain microvascular endothelial cells by means of upregulating hypoxia inducible factor-1α expression.MTT assay and Hoechst staining results showed that DL-3-n-butylphthalide protected brain microvascular endothelial cells against oxygen glucose deprivation-induced injury in a dose-dependent manner.Western blot and immunofluorescent staining results further confirmed that the protective effect was related to upregulation of hypoxia inducible factor-1α.Real-time RT-PCR reaction results showed that DL-3-n-butylphthalide reduced apoptosis by inhibiting downregulation of pro-apoptotic gene caspase-3 mRNA expression and upregulation of apoptosis-executive protease bcl-2 mRNA expression;however,DL-3-n-butylphthalide had no protective effects on brain microvascular endothelial cells after knockdown of hypoxia inducible factor-1α by small interfering RNA.These findings suggest that DL-3-n-butylphthalide can protect brain microvascular endothelial cells against oxygen glucose deprivation-induced injury by upregulating bcl-2 expression and downregulating caspase-3 expression though hypoxia inducible factor-1α pathway.展开更多
Neovascularization and angiogenesis in the brain are important physiological processes for normal brain development and repair/regeneration following insults. Integrins are cell surface adhesion receptors mediating im...Neovascularization and angiogenesis in the brain are important physiological processes for normal brain development and repair/regeneration following insults. Integrins are cell surface adhesion receptors mediating important function of cells such as survival, growth and development during tissue organization, differentiation and organogenesis. In this study, we used an integrin-binding array platform to identify the important types of integrins and their binding peptides that facilitate adhesion, growth, development, and vascular-like network formation of rat primary brain microvascular endothelial cells. Brain microvascular endothelial cells were isolated from rat brain on post-natal day 7. Cells were cultured in a custom-designed integrin array system containing short synthetic peptides binding to 16 types of integrins commonly expressed on cells in vertebrates. After 7 days of culture, the brain microvascular endothelial cells were processed for immunostaining with markers for endothelial cells including von Willibrand factor and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule. 5-Bromo-2′-dexoyuridine was added to the culture at 48 hours prior to fixation to assess cell proliferation. Among 16 integrins tested, we found that α5β1, αvβ5 and αvβ8 greatly promoted proliferation of endothelial cells in culture. To investigate the effect of integrin-binding peptides in promoting neovascularization and angiogenesis, the binding peptides to the above three types of integrins were immobilized to our custom-designed hydrogel in three-dimensional(3 D) culture of brain microvascular endothelial cells with the addition of vascular endothelial growth factor. Following a 7-day 3 D culture, the culture was fixed and processed for double labeling of phalloidin with von Willibrand factor or platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule and assessed under confocal microscopy. In the 3 D culture in hydrogels conjugated with the integrin-binding peptide, brain microvascular endothelial cells formed interconnected vascular-like network with clearly discernable lumens, which is reminiscent of brain microvascular network in vivo. With the novel integrin-binding array system, we identified the specific types of integrins on brain microvascular endothelial cells that mediate cell adhesion and growth followed by functionalizing a 3 D hydrogel culture system using the binding peptides that specifically bind to the identified integrins, leading to robust growth and lumenized microvascular-like network formation of brain microvascular endothelial cells in 3 D culture. This technology can be used for in vitro and in vivo vascularization of transplants or brain lesions to promote brain tissue regeneration following neurological insults.展开更多
In this work, blank polylactic acid （PLA） nanoparticles with unstained surface were prepared by the nano-deposition method. On the basis of the preparation, the effect of surface modification on brain microvascular ...In this work, blank polylactic acid （PLA） nanoparticles with unstained surface were prepared by the nano-deposition method. On the basis of the preparation, the effect of surface modification on brain microvascular endothelial cells （BMECs） targeting was examined by in vivo experiments and fluorescence microscopy. The results showed that PLA nanoparticles are less toxic than PACA nanoparticles but their BMECs targeting is similar to PACA nanoparticles. The experiments suggest that drugs can he loaded onto the particles and become more stable through adsorption on the surface of PLA nanoparticles with high surface activity. The surface of PLA nanoparticles was obviously modified and the hydrophilicity was increased as well in the presence of non-ionic surfactants on PLA nanoparticles. As a targeting moiety, polysobate 80 （T-80） can facilitate BMECs targeting of PLA nanoparticles.展开更多
OBJECTIVE： To investigate the effect of endothelial cells on the permeability of blood brain barrier （BBB） after brain injury and its effect mechanism. DATA SOURCES： We searched for the articles of permeability of...OBJECTIVE： To investigate the effect of endothelial cells on the permeability of blood brain barrier （BBB） after brain injury and its effect mechanism. DATA SOURCES： We searched for the articles of permeability of BBB and endothelial cell injury after brain is- chemia, which were published between January 1982 and December 2005, with the key words of ＂cerebral ischemia damage,blood brain barrier （ BBB）,permeability,effect of endothelial cell （EC） and its variation mechanism＂in English. STUDY SELECTION： The materials were primarily selected. The articles related to the changes in the permeability of BBB and the effect of endothelial cells as well as the change mechanism after cerebral ischemia damage were chosen. Repetitive studies or review articles were excluded. DATA EXTRACTION： Totally 55 related articles were collected, and 35 were excluded due to repetitive or review articles, finally 20 articles were involved. DATA SYNTHESIS： The content or viewpoints of involved literatures were analyzed. Cerebral ischemia had damage for endothelial cells, such as the inflow of a lot of Ca2^＋, the production of nitrogen monoxide and oxygen free radical, and aggravated destruction of BBB. After acceptors of inflammatory mediators on cerebrovascular endothelial cell membrane, such as histamine, bradykinin , 5-hydroxytryptamine and so on are activated, endothelial cells shrink and the permeability of BBB increases. Its mechanism involves in the inflow of extracellular Ca^＋2and the release of intracellular Ca^2＋ in the cells. Glycocalyx molecule on the surface of endothelial cell, having structural polytropy, is the determinative factor of the permeability of BBB. VEGF, intensively increasing the vasopermeability and mainly effecting on postcapillary vein and veinlet, is the strongest known blood vessel permeation reagent. Its chronic overexpression in the brain can lead the destruction of BBB. CONCLUSION： The injury of endothelial cell participants in the pathological mechanism of BBB destruction after cerebral ischemla.展开更多
Blood-brain barrier disruption occurs in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.Recent studies indicate a link between blood-brain barrier dysfunction and cognitive decline and might accelerate Alzheimer’s disease ...Blood-brain barrier disruption occurs in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.Recent studies indicate a link between blood-brain barrier dysfunction and cognitive decline and might accelerate Alzheimer’s disease progression.Astrocytes are the most abundant glial cells in the central nervous system with important roles in the structural and functional maintenance of the blood-brain barrier.For example,astrocytic cove rage around endothelial cells with perivascular endfeet and secretion of homeostatic soluble factors are two major underlying mechanisms of astrocytic physiological functions.Astrocyte activation is often observed in Alzheimer’s disease patients,with astrocytes expressing a high level of glial fibrillary acid protein detected around amyloid-beta plaque with the elevated phagocytic ability for amyloid-beta.Structural alte rations in Alzheimer’s disease astrocytes including swollen endfeet,somata shrinkage and possess loss contribute to disruption in vascular integrity at capillary and arte rioles levels.In addition,Alzheimer’s disease astrocytes are skewed into proinflammatory and oxidative profiles with increased secretions of vasoactive mediators inducing endothelial junction disruption and immune cell infiltration.In this review,we summarize the findings of existing literature on the relevance of astrocyte alte ration in response to amyloid pathology in the context of blood-brain barrier dysfunction.First,we briefly describe the physiological roles of astrocytes in blood-brain barrier maintenance.Then,we review the clinical evidence of astrocyte pathology in Alzheimer’s disease patients and the preclinical evidence in animal and cellular models.We further discuss the structural changes of blood-brain barrier that correlates with Alzheimer’s disease astrocyte.Finally,we evaluate the roles of soluble factors secreted by Alzheimer’s disease astrocytes,providing potential molecular mechanisms underlying blood-brain barrier modulation.We conclude with a perspective on investigating the therapeutic potential of targeting astrocytes for blood-brain barrier protection in Alzheimer’s disease.展开更多
The blood-brain barrier(BBB)is a highly selective and critical interface between the blood and the central nervous system(CNS),essential for maintaining the microenvironment necessary for normal brain function and hom...The blood-brain barrier(BBB)is a highly selective and critical interface between the blood and the central nervous system(CNS),essential for maintaining the microenvironment necessary for normal brain function and homeostasis[1].The BBB is primarily formed by brain endothelial cells(bECs),pericytes,and astrocytes,and it operates in concert with microglia/macrophages and neurons[2,3]to constitute the neurovascular unit(Fig.1).Disruption of the BBB or the presence of systemic inflammation can precipitate or exacerbate various CNS pathologies,including Alzheimer’s disease[4],amyotrophic lateral sclerosis[5],Huntington’s disease[6]and multiple sclerosis.展开更多
Biological studies typically rely on a simple monolayer cell culture,which does not reflect the complex functional characteristics of human tissues and organs,or their real response to external stimuli.Microfluidic te...Biological studies typically rely on a simple monolayer cell culture,which does not reflect the complex functional characteristics of human tissues and organs,or their real response to external stimuli.Microfluidic technology has advantages of high-throughput screening,accurate control of the fluid velocity,low cell consumption,long-term culture,and high integration.By combining the multipotential differentiation of neural stem cells with high throughput and the integrated characteristics of microfluidic technology,an in vitro model of a functionalized neurovascular unit was established using human neural stem cell-derived neurons,astrocytes,oligodendrocytes,and a functional microvascular barrier.The model comprises a multi-layer vertical neural module and vascular module,both of which were connected with a syringe pump.This provides controllable conditions for cell inoculation and nutrient supply,and simultaneously simulates the process of ischemic/hypoxic injury and the process of inflammatory factors in the circulatory system passing through the blood-brain barrier and then acting on the nerve tissue in the brain.The in vitro functionalized neurovascular unit model will be conducive to central nervous system disease research,drug screening,and new drug development.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the synergistic effect of Naoxintong Capsule(NXTC,脑心通胶囊)and Guhong Injection(GHI,谷红注射液)on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion(丨/R)injury.Methods:Forty-eight Sprague-Dawley rats were divid...Objective:To investigate the synergistic effect of Naoxintong Capsule(NXTC,脑心通胶囊)and Guhong Injection(GHI,谷红注射液)on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion(丨/R)injury.Methods:Forty-eight Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 6 groups:control group,oxygen and glucose deprivation(OGD)group,nimodipine group(9.375 mg/kg),NXTC group(0.5 g/kg),GHI group(5 mL/kg)and NXTC+GHI group(0.5 g/kg NXTC+5 mL/kg GHI),after the onset of reperfusion and once per day for the following 7 days.Blood was collected 1 h after final administration,and the sera were collected.Cultured primary rat brain microvascular endothelial cells(rBMECs)were subjected to OGD to establish a cell injury model.Untreated rBMECs were used as blank control.The cell counting kit-8 assay was used to assess cell viability using the sera.Malondialdehyde(MDA)and superoxide dismutase(SOD)levels were assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Apoptosis was evaluated after Hoechst33342 staining using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry.JC-1 staining was performed to assess changes in mitochondrial membrane potential.Results:Statistical analysis indicated that more than 95%of the cells were rBMECs.Compared with the OGD group,the cellular morphology of the all drug delivery groups improved.In particular,the combined drug group had the most significant effect.Compared with the OGD group,all drug intervention groups induced a decrease in the apoptotic rate of rBMECs,increased the SOD levels,and decreased the MDA levels(all P<0.01).Compared with the mono-therapy groups,the NXTC+GHI group exhibited a significant improvement in the number of apoptotic rBMECs(P<0.01).All drug intervention groups showed different degrees of increase in membrane potential,and the NXTC+GHI group was higher than the NXTC or GHI group(P<0.01).Conclusion:The combinationa application of NXTC and GHI on cerebral l/R injury clearly resulted in protective benefits.展开更多
Defects in the endothelial cell barrier accompany diverse malfunctions of the central nervous system such as neurodegenerative diseases,stroke,traumatic brain injury,and systemic diseases such as sepsis,viral and bact...Defects in the endothelial cell barrier accompany diverse malfunctions of the central nervous system such as neurodegenerative diseases,stroke,traumatic brain injury,and systemic diseases such as sepsis,viral and bacterial infections,and cancer.Compromised endothelial sealing leads to leaking blood vessels,followed by vasogenic edema.Brain edema as the most common complication caused by stroke and traumatic brain injury is the leading cause of death.Brain microvascular endothelial cells,together with astrocytes,pericytes,microglia,and neurons form a selective barrier,the so-called blood-brain barrier,which regulates the movement of molecules inside and outside of the brain.Mechanisms that regulate blood-brain barrier permeability in health and disease are complex and not fully understood.Several newly discovered molecules that are involved in the regulation of cellular processes in brain microvascular endothelial cells have been described in the literature in recent years.One of these molecules that are highly expressed in brain microvascular endothelial cells is protocadherin gamma C3.In this review,we discuss recent evidence that protocadherin gamma C3 is a newly identified key player involved in the regulation of vascular barrier function.展开更多
Amyloid beta-peptides(Aβ) are known to undergo active transport across the blood-brain barrier, and cerebral amyloid angiopathy has been shown to be a prominent feature in the majority of Alzheimer's disease. Que...Amyloid beta-peptides(Aβ) are known to undergo active transport across the blood-brain barrier, and cerebral amyloid angiopathy has been shown to be a prominent feature in the majority of Alzheimer's disease. Quercetin is a natural flavonoid molecule and has been demonstrated to have potent neuroprotective effects, but its protective effect on endothelial cells under Aβ-damaged condition is unclear. In the present study, the protective effects of quercetin on brain microvascular endothelial cells injured by fibrillar Aβ_(1–40)(f Aβ_(1–40)) were observed. The results show that f Aβ_(1–40)-induced cytotoxicity in human brain microvascular endothelial cells(h BMECs) can be relieved by quercetin treatment. Quercetin increases cell viability, reduces the release of lactate dehydrogenase, and relieves nuclear condensation.Quercetin also alleviates intracellular reactive oxygen species generation and increases superoxide dismutase activity. Moreover, it strengthens the barrier integrity through the preservation of the transendothelial electrical resistance value, the relief of aggravated permeability, and the increase of characteristic enzyme levels after being exposed to f Aβ_(1–40). In conclusion, quercetin protects h BMECs from f Aβ_(1–40)-induced toxicity.展开更多
To prepare a hand-made micropore membrane culture plate insert forco-culture. Methods The plate insert was made using plastic centrifuge tube and micropore membrane.After seeding brain capillary endothelial cells (BCE...To prepare a hand-made micropore membrane culture plate insert forco-culture. Methods The plate insert was made using plastic centrifuge tube and micropore membrane.After seeding brain capillary endothelial cells (BCECs) on it (under the effect ofastrocyte-conditioned medium), the plate insert was assessed by analysis of trans-endothelialelectrical resistance (TEER). Results The plate insert has a stability of at least 15 d underculture condition. TEER increased significantly under co-culture condition from (66.1 +- 13.3)Ωcm^2 to (182.2 +- 6.7) Ωcm^2. Conclusion This micropore membrane culture plate insert can beeasily made, on which BCEC culture can be successfully performed. Moreover, it is adjustable andrecyclable. It follows that the plate insert is a useful tool for co-culture and the relatedresearch fields.展开更多
The blood-brain barrier(BBB)is a protective interface between the central nervous system(CNS)and the circulating blood,and is critical in controlling the movement of ions,molecules and cells to maintain CNS homeostasi...The blood-brain barrier(BBB)is a protective interface between the central nervous system(CNS)and the circulating blood,and is critical in controlling the movement of ions,molecules and cells to maintain CNS homeostasis.The disruption of BBB is a key event responsible for the pathology in a number of neurological diseases and has also been shown to be involved in the severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2(SARS-CoV-2)infections recently.In this review,we discuss the cellular and molecular components orchestrating BBB formation and function maintenance across species.How this barrier can be modulated for efficient drug delivery into the brain,and how BBB breakdown participates in neurological diseases are discussed.Finally,we highlight the recent work identifying the possible mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 invades CNS by crossing BBB in Corona Virus Disease 2019(COVID-19)patients.展开更多
基金funded by the Science and Technology Innovation Project of the China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences(Nos.CI2021A04618 and CI2021A01401).
文摘Objective Brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) were found to shift from their usually inactive state to an active state in ischemic stroke (IS) and cause neuronal damage. Ginsenoside Rb1 (GRb1),a component derived from medicinal plants,is known for its pharmacological benefits in IS,but its protective effects on BMECs have yet to be explored. This study aimed to investigate the potential protective effects of GRb1 on BMECs. Methods An in vitro oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) model was established to mimic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury. Bulk RNA-sequencing data were analyzed by using the Human Autophagy Database and various bioinformatic tools,including gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA),Gene Ontology (GO) classification and enrichment analysis,Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis,protein-protein interaction network analysis,and molecular docking. Experimental validation was also performed to ensure the reliability of our findings. Results Rb1 had a protective effect on BMECs subjected to OGD/R injury. Specifically,GRb1 was found to modulate the interplay between oxidative stress,apoptosis,and autophagy in BMECs. Key targets such as sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1/p62),autophagy related 5 (ATG5),and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) were identified,highlighting their potential roles in mediating the protective effects of GRb1 against IS-induced damage. Conclusion GRbl protects BMECs against OGD/R injury by influencing oxidative stress,apoptosis,and autophagy. The identification of SQSTM1/p62,ATG5,and HIF-1α as promising targets further supports the potential of GRb1 as a therapeutic agent for IS,providing a foundation for future research into its mechanisms and applications in IS treatment.
基金Program of Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai,Grant/Award Number:21ZR1453800 and 22ZR1452400Program of National Natural Science Foundation of China,Grant/Award Number:82370057+3 种基金Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities,Grant/Award Number:22120220562Program of Shanghai Municipal Health Commission,Grant/Award Number:20204Y0384Program of National Key Research and Development Project of China,Grant/Award Number:2023YFC2509500。
文摘Background:Our previous study found that mouse embryonic neural stem cell(NSC)-derived exosomes(EXOs)regulated NSC differentiation via the miR-9/Hes1 axis.However,the effects of EXOs on brain microvascular endothelial cell(BMEC)dysfunction via the miR-9/Hes1 axis remain unknown.Therefore,the current study aimed to determine the effects of EXOs on BMEC proliferation,migration,and death via the miR-9/Hes1 axis.Methods:Immunofluorescence,quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction,cell counting kit-8 assay,wound healing assay,calcein-acetoxymethyl/propidium iodide staining,and hematoxylin and eosin staining were used to determine the role and mechanism of EXOs on BMECs.Results:EXOs promoted BMEC proliferation and migration and reduced cell death under hypoxic conditions.The overexpression of miR-9 promoted BMEC prolifera-tion and migration and reduced cell death under hypoxic conditions.Moreover,miR-9 downregulation inhibited BMEC proliferation and migration and also promoted cell death.Hes1 silencing ameliorated the effect of amtagomiR-9 on BMEC proliferation and migration and cell death.Hyperemic structures were observed in the regions of the hippocampus and cortex in hypoxia-induced mice.Meanwhile,EXO treatment improved cerebrovascular alterations.Conclusion:NSC-derived EXOs can promote BMEC proliferation and migra-tion and reduce cell death via the miR-9/Hes1 axis under hypoxic conditions.Therefore,EXO therapeutic strategies could be considered for hypoxia-induced vascular injury.
基金supported by EnTimeMent H2020-FETPROACT-824160(to LF)。
文摘In the current landscape of endothelial cell isolation for building in vitro models of the blood-brain barrier,our work moves towards reproducing the features of the neurovascular unit to achieve glial compliance through an innovative biomimetic coating technology for brain chronic implants.We hypothesized that the autologous origin of human brain mic rovascular endothelial cells(hBMECs)is the first requirement for the suitable coating to prevent the glial inflammato ry response trigge red by foreign neuroprosthetics.Therefo re,this study established a new procedure to preserve the in vitro viability of hBMECs isolated from gray and white matter specimens taken from neurosurge ry patients.Culturing adult hBMECs is generally considered a challenging task due to the difficult survival ex vivo and progressive reduction in proliferation of these cells.The addition of 10 nMβ-estradiol 17-acetate to the hBMEC culture medium was found to be an essential and discriminating factor promoting adhesion and proliferation both after isolation and thawing,suppo rting the well-known protective role played by estrogens on microvessels.In particular,β-estradiol 17-acetate was critical for both freshly isolated and thawed female-derived hBMECs,while it was not necessary for freshly isolated male-derived hBMECs;however,it did countera ct the decay in the viability of the latter after thawing.The tumo r-free hBMECs were thus cultured for up to 2 months and their growth efficiency was assessed befo re and after two periods of cryopreservation.Des pite the thermal stress,the hBMECs remained viable and suitable for re-freezing and storage for several months.This approach increasing in vitro viability of hBMECs opens new perspectives for the use of cryopreserved autologous hBMECs as biomimetic therapeutic tools,offering the potential to avoid additional surgical sampling for each patient.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.81974207(to JH),82001383(to DW)the Special Clinical Research Project of Health Profession of Shanghai Municipal Health Commission,No.20204Y0076(to DW)。
文摘Upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor A/basic fibroblast growth factor(VEGFA/b FGF)expression in the penumbra of cerebral ischemia can increase vascular volume,reduce lesion volume,and enhance neural cell proliferation and differentiation,thereby exerting neuroprotective effects.However,the beneficial effects of endogenous VEGFA/b FGF are limited as their expression is only transiently increased.In this study,we generated multilayered nanofiber membranes loaded with VEGFA/b FGF using layer-by-layer self-assembly and electrospinning techniques.We found that a membrane containing 10 layers had an ideal ultrastructure and could efficiently and stably release growth factors for more than 1 month.This 10-layered nanofiber membrane promoted brain microvascular endothelial cell tube formation and proliferation,inhibited neuronal apoptosis,upregulated the expression of tight junction proteins,and improved the viability of various cellular components of neurovascular units under conditions of oxygen/glucose deprivation.Furthermore,this nanofiber membrane decreased the expression of Janus kinase-2/signal transducer and activator of transcription-3(JAK2/STAT3),Bax/Bcl-2,and cleaved caspase-3.Therefore,this nanofiber membrane exhibits a neuroprotective effect on oxygen/glucose-deprived neurovascular units by inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 pathway.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of ChinaNo.8117111281371272 to MCL
文摘Brain microvascular endothelial cells form the interface between nervous tissue and circulating blood, and regulate central nervous system homeostasis. Brain microvascular endothelial cells differ from peripheral endothelial cells with regards expression of specific ion transporters and receptors, and contain fewer fenestrations and pinocytotic vesicles. Brain microvascular endothelial cells also synthesize several factors that influence blood vessel function. This review describes the morphological characteristics and functions of brain microvascular endothelial cells, and summarizes current knowledge regarding changes in brain microvascular endothelial cells during stroke progression and therapies. Future studies should focus on identifying mechanisms underlying such changes and developing possible neuroprotective therapeutic interventions.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Hainan Province of China,No.817334
文摘Long non-coding RNAs regulate brain microvascular endothelial cell death, the inflammatory response and angiogenesis during and after ischemia/reperfusion and oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation（OGD/R） insults. The long non-coding RNA, SNHG12, is upregulated after ischemia/reperfusion and OGD/R in microvascular endothelial cells of the mouse brain. However, its role in ischemic stroke has not been studied. We hypothesized that SNHG12 positively regulates ischemic stroke, and therefore we investigated its mechanism of action. We established an OGD/R mouse cell model to mimic ischemic stroke by exposing brain microvascular endothelial cells to OGD for 0, 2, 4, 8, 16 or 24 hours and reoxygenation for 4 hours. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction showed that SNHG12 levels in brain microvascular endothelial cells increased with respect to OGD exposure time. Brain microvascular endothelial cells were transfected with pc DNA-control, pc DNA-SNHG12, si-control, or si-SNHG12. After exposure to OGD for 16 hours, these cells were then analyzed by 3-（4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl）-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide, trypan blue exclusion, western blot, and capillary-like tube formation assays. Overexpression of SNHG12 inhibited brain microvascular endothelial cell death and the inflammatory response but promoted angiogenesis after OGD/R, while SNHG12 knockdown had the opposite effects. miR-199a was identified as a target of SNHG12, and SNHG12 overexpression reversed the effect of miR-199a on brain microvascular endothelial cell death, the inflammatory response, and angiogenesis. These findings suggest that SNHG12 suppresses endothelial cell injury induced by OGD/R by targeting miR-199a.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.81374005,30973979grant from the National Science and Technology Support Program during the Twelfth"Five-Year"Plan Period of China,No.2012BAI26B03
文摘Drugs for the treatment and prevention of nervous system diseases must permeate the bloodbrain barrier to take effect.In vitro models of the blood-brain barrier are therefore important in the investigation of drug permeation mechanisms.However,to date,no unified method has been described for establishing a blood-brain barrier model.Here,we modified an in vitro model of the blood-brain barrier by seeding brain microvascular endothelial cells and astrocytes from newborn rats on a polyester Transwell cell culture membrane with 0.4-μm pores,and conducted transepithelial electrical resistance measurements,leakage tests and assays for specific bloodbrain barrier enzymes.We show that the permeability of our model is as low as that of the bloodbrain barrier in vivo.Our model will be a valuable tool in the study of the mechanisms of action of neuroprotective drugs.
基金supported by the Ningbo Public Welfare Science and Technology Program,No.2022S023(to JY)Ningbo Natural Science Foundation,No.2022J211(to JS)+2 种基金Ningbo Medical and Health Brand Discipline,No.PPXK2018-04(to XG)Ningbo Top Medical and Health Research Program,No.2022020304(to XG)Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Atherosclerotic Diseases of Zhejiang Province,No.2022E10026(to YH)。
文摘Post-acute ischemic stroke hyperglycemia increases the risk of hemorrhagic transformation,which is associated with blood-brain barrier disruption.Brain microvascular endothelial cells are a major component of the blood-brain barrier.Intercellular mitochondrial transfer has emerged as a novel paradigm for repairing cells with mitochondrial dysfunction.In this study,we first investigated whether mitochondrial transfer exists between brain microvascular endothelial cells,and then investigated the effects of post-acute ischemic stroke hyperglycemia on mitochondrial transfer between brain microvascular endothelial cells.We found that healthy brain microvascular endothelial cells can transfer intact mitochondria to oxygen glucose deprivation-injured brain microvascular endothelial cells.However,post-oxygen glucose deprivation hyperglycemia hindered mitochondrial transfer and exacerbated mitochondrial dysfunction.We established an in vitro brain microvascular endothelial cell model of the blood-brain barrier.We found that post-acute ischemic stroke hyperglycemia reduced the overall energy metabolism levels of brain microvascular endothelial cells and increased permeability of the blood-brain barrier.In a clinical study,we retrospectively analyzed the relationship between post-acute ischemic stroke hyperglycemia and the severity of hemorrhagic transformation.We found that post-acute ischemic stroke hyperglycemia serves as an independent predictor of severe hemorrhagic transformation.These findings suggest that post-acute ischemic stroke hyperglycemia can aggravate disruption of the blood-brain barrier by inhibiting mitochondrial transfer.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.30471917 and 30770766
文摘Studies have demonstrated that DL-3-n-butylphthalide can significantly alleviate oxygen glucose deprivation-induced injury of human umbilical vein endothelial cells at least partly associated with its enhancement on oxygen glucose deprivation-induced hypoxia inducible factor-1α expression.In this study,we hypothesized that DL-3-n-butylphthalide can protect against oxygen glucose deprivation-induced injury of newborn rat brain microvascular endothelial cells by means of upregulating hypoxia inducible factor-1α expression.MTT assay and Hoechst staining results showed that DL-3-n-butylphthalide protected brain microvascular endothelial cells against oxygen glucose deprivation-induced injury in a dose-dependent manner.Western blot and immunofluorescent staining results further confirmed that the protective effect was related to upregulation of hypoxia inducible factor-1α.Real-time RT-PCR reaction results showed that DL-3-n-butylphthalide reduced apoptosis by inhibiting downregulation of pro-apoptotic gene caspase-3 mRNA expression and upregulation of apoptosis-executive protease bcl-2 mRNA expression;however,DL-3-n-butylphthalide had no protective effects on brain microvascular endothelial cells after knockdown of hypoxia inducible factor-1α by small interfering RNA.These findings suggest that DL-3-n-butylphthalide can protect brain microvascular endothelial cells against oxygen glucose deprivation-induced injury by upregulating bcl-2 expression and downregulating caspase-3 expression though hypoxia inducible factor-1α pathway.
基金supported by NIH grant RO1 NS093985 (to DS, NZ, XW) and RO1 NS101955 (to DS)the VCU Microscopy Facility,supported,in part,by funding from NIH-NCI Cancer Center Support Grant P30 CA016059。
文摘Neovascularization and angiogenesis in the brain are important physiological processes for normal brain development and repair/regeneration following insults. Integrins are cell surface adhesion receptors mediating important function of cells such as survival, growth and development during tissue organization, differentiation and organogenesis. In this study, we used an integrin-binding array platform to identify the important types of integrins and their binding peptides that facilitate adhesion, growth, development, and vascular-like network formation of rat primary brain microvascular endothelial cells. Brain microvascular endothelial cells were isolated from rat brain on post-natal day 7. Cells were cultured in a custom-designed integrin array system containing short synthetic peptides binding to 16 types of integrins commonly expressed on cells in vertebrates. After 7 days of culture, the brain microvascular endothelial cells were processed for immunostaining with markers for endothelial cells including von Willibrand factor and platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule. 5-Bromo-2′-dexoyuridine was added to the culture at 48 hours prior to fixation to assess cell proliferation. Among 16 integrins tested, we found that α5β1, αvβ5 and αvβ8 greatly promoted proliferation of endothelial cells in culture. To investigate the effect of integrin-binding peptides in promoting neovascularization and angiogenesis, the binding peptides to the above three types of integrins were immobilized to our custom-designed hydrogel in three-dimensional(3 D) culture of brain microvascular endothelial cells with the addition of vascular endothelial growth factor. Following a 7-day 3 D culture, the culture was fixed and processed for double labeling of phalloidin with von Willibrand factor or platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule and assessed under confocal microscopy. In the 3 D culture in hydrogels conjugated with the integrin-binding peptide, brain microvascular endothelial cells formed interconnected vascular-like network with clearly discernable lumens, which is reminiscent of brain microvascular network in vivo. With the novel integrin-binding array system, we identified the specific types of integrins on brain microvascular endothelial cells that mediate cell adhesion and growth followed by functionalizing a 3 D hydrogel culture system using the binding peptides that specifically bind to the identified integrins, leading to robust growth and lumenized microvascular-like network formation of brain microvascular endothelial cells in 3 D culture. This technology can be used for in vitro and in vivo vascularization of transplants or brain lesions to promote brain tissue regeneration following neurological insults.
文摘In this work, blank polylactic acid （PLA） nanoparticles with unstained surface were prepared by the nano-deposition method. On the basis of the preparation, the effect of surface modification on brain microvascular endothelial cells （BMECs） targeting was examined by in vivo experiments and fluorescence microscopy. The results showed that PLA nanoparticles are less toxic than PACA nanoparticles but their BMECs targeting is similar to PACA nanoparticles. The experiments suggest that drugs can he loaded onto the particles and become more stable through adsorption on the surface of PLA nanoparticles with high surface activity. The surface of PLA nanoparticles was obviously modified and the hydrophilicity was increased as well in the presence of non-ionic surfactants on PLA nanoparticles. As a targeting moiety, polysobate 80 （T-80） can facilitate BMECs targeting of PLA nanoparticles.
基金Special Topic of Scientific and Technological Re-search of Traditional ChineseMedicine of the State Adminis-tration of Traditional ChineseMedicine, No. 04-05JL13 theNational Natural Science Foun-dation of China, No.30371812
文摘OBJECTIVE： To investigate the effect of endothelial cells on the permeability of blood brain barrier （BBB） after brain injury and its effect mechanism. DATA SOURCES： We searched for the articles of permeability of BBB and endothelial cell injury after brain is- chemia, which were published between January 1982 and December 2005, with the key words of ＂cerebral ischemia damage,blood brain barrier （ BBB）,permeability,effect of endothelial cell （EC） and its variation mechanism＂in English. STUDY SELECTION： The materials were primarily selected. The articles related to the changes in the permeability of BBB and the effect of endothelial cells as well as the change mechanism after cerebral ischemia damage were chosen. Repetitive studies or review articles were excluded. DATA EXTRACTION： Totally 55 related articles were collected, and 35 were excluded due to repetitive or review articles, finally 20 articles were involved. DATA SYNTHESIS： The content or viewpoints of involved literatures were analyzed. Cerebral ischemia had damage for endothelial cells, such as the inflow of a lot of Ca2^＋, the production of nitrogen monoxide and oxygen free radical, and aggravated destruction of BBB. After acceptors of inflammatory mediators on cerebrovascular endothelial cell membrane, such as histamine, bradykinin , 5-hydroxytryptamine and so on are activated, endothelial cells shrink and the permeability of BBB increases. Its mechanism involves in the inflow of extracellular Ca^＋2and the release of intracellular Ca^2＋ in the cells. Glycocalyx molecule on the surface of endothelial cell, having structural polytropy, is the determinative factor of the permeability of BBB. VEGF, intensively increasing the vasopermeability and mainly effecting on postcapillary vein and veinlet, is the strongest known blood vessel permeation reagent. Its chronic overexpression in the brain can lead the destruction of BBB. CONCLUSION： The injury of endothelial cell participants in the pathological mechanism of BBB destruction after cerebral ischemla.
基金supported by the Science and Technology Development Fund (Macao SAR)(120015/2019/ASC,0023/2020/AFJ,0035/2020/AGJ)the University of Macao Research Grant (MYRG2022-00248-ICMS)(all to MPMH)。
文摘Blood-brain barrier disruption occurs in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.Recent studies indicate a link between blood-brain barrier dysfunction and cognitive decline and might accelerate Alzheimer’s disease progression.Astrocytes are the most abundant glial cells in the central nervous system with important roles in the structural and functional maintenance of the blood-brain barrier.For example,astrocytic cove rage around endothelial cells with perivascular endfeet and secretion of homeostatic soluble factors are two major underlying mechanisms of astrocytic physiological functions.Astrocyte activation is often observed in Alzheimer’s disease patients,with astrocytes expressing a high level of glial fibrillary acid protein detected around amyloid-beta plaque with the elevated phagocytic ability for amyloid-beta.Structural alte rations in Alzheimer’s disease astrocytes including swollen endfeet,somata shrinkage and possess loss contribute to disruption in vascular integrity at capillary and arte rioles levels.In addition,Alzheimer’s disease astrocytes are skewed into proinflammatory and oxidative profiles with increased secretions of vasoactive mediators inducing endothelial junction disruption and immune cell infiltration.In this review,we summarize the findings of existing literature on the relevance of astrocyte alte ration in response to amyloid pathology in the context of blood-brain barrier dysfunction.First,we briefly describe the physiological roles of astrocytes in blood-brain barrier maintenance.Then,we review the clinical evidence of astrocyte pathology in Alzheimer’s disease patients and the preclinical evidence in animal and cellular models.We further discuss the structural changes of blood-brain barrier that correlates with Alzheimer’s disease astrocyte.Finally,we evaluate the roles of soluble factors secreted by Alzheimer’s disease astrocytes,providing potential molecular mechanisms underlying blood-brain barrier modulation.We conclude with a perspective on investigating the therapeutic potential of targeting astrocytes for blood-brain barrier protection in Alzheimer’s disease.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.82174010 and 81973512).
文摘The blood-brain barrier(BBB)is a highly selective and critical interface between the blood and the central nervous system(CNS),essential for maintaining the microenvironment necessary for normal brain function and homeostasis[1].The BBB is primarily formed by brain endothelial cells(bECs),pericytes,and astrocytes,and it operates in concert with microglia/macrophages and neurons[2,3]to constitute the neurovascular unit(Fig.1).Disruption of the BBB or the presence of systemic inflammation can precipitate or exacerbate various CNS pathologies,including Alzheimer’s disease[4],amyotrophic lateral sclerosis[5],Huntington’s disease[6]and multiple sclerosis.
基金supported by the Stem Cell Clinical Research Project of China,No.CMR-20161129-1003Liaoning Province Excellent Talent Program Project of China,No.XLYC1902031the Dalian Innovation Technology Foundation of China,No.2018J11CY025(all to JL).
文摘Biological studies typically rely on a simple monolayer cell culture,which does not reflect the complex functional characteristics of human tissues and organs,or their real response to external stimuli.Microfluidic technology has advantages of high-throughput screening,accurate control of the fluid velocity,low cell consumption,long-term culture,and high integration.By combining the multipotential differentiation of neural stem cells with high throughput and the integrated characteristics of microfluidic technology,an in vitro model of a functionalized neurovascular unit was established using human neural stem cell-derived neurons,astrocytes,oligodendrocytes,and a functional microvascular barrier.The model comprises a multi-layer vertical neural module and vascular module,both of which were connected with a syringe pump.This provides controllable conditions for cell inoculation and nutrient supply,and simultaneously simulates the process of ischemic/hypoxic injury and the process of inflammatory factors in the circulatory system passing through the blood-brain barrier and then acting on the nerve tissue in the brain.The in vitro functionalized neurovascular unit model will be conducive to central nervous system disease research,drug screening,and new drug development.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81630105,81973560)Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.LZ17H270001,LZ18H270001)Zhejiang Provincial Program for the Cultivation of High-level Innovative Health Talents。
文摘Objective:To investigate the synergistic effect of Naoxintong Capsule(NXTC,脑心通胶囊)and Guhong Injection(GHI,谷红注射液)on cerebral ischemia-reperfusion(丨/R)injury.Methods:Forty-eight Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 6 groups:control group,oxygen and glucose deprivation(OGD)group,nimodipine group(9.375 mg/kg),NXTC group(0.5 g/kg),GHI group(5 mL/kg)and NXTC+GHI group(0.5 g/kg NXTC+5 mL/kg GHI),after the onset of reperfusion and once per day for the following 7 days.Blood was collected 1 h after final administration,and the sera were collected.Cultured primary rat brain microvascular endothelial cells(rBMECs)were subjected to OGD to establish a cell injury model.Untreated rBMECs were used as blank control.The cell counting kit-8 assay was used to assess cell viability using the sera.Malondialdehyde(MDA)and superoxide dismutase(SOD)levels were assessed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Apoptosis was evaluated after Hoechst33342 staining using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry.JC-1 staining was performed to assess changes in mitochondrial membrane potential.Results:Statistical analysis indicated that more than 95%of the cells were rBMECs.Compared with the OGD group,the cellular morphology of the all drug delivery groups improved.In particular,the combined drug group had the most significant effect.Compared with the OGD group,all drug intervention groups induced a decrease in the apoptotic rate of rBMECs,increased the SOD levels,and decreased the MDA levels(all P<0.01).Compared with the mono-therapy groups,the NXTC+GHI group exhibited a significant improvement in the number of apoptotic rBMECs(P<0.01).All drug intervention groups showed different degrees of increase in membrane potential,and the NXTC+GHI group was higher than the NXTC or GHI group(P<0.01).Conclusion:The combinationa application of NXTC and GHI on cerebral l/R injury clearly resulted in protective benefits.
文摘Defects in the endothelial cell barrier accompany diverse malfunctions of the central nervous system such as neurodegenerative diseases,stroke,traumatic brain injury,and systemic diseases such as sepsis,viral and bacterial infections,and cancer.Compromised endothelial sealing leads to leaking blood vessels,followed by vasogenic edema.Brain edema as the most common complication caused by stroke and traumatic brain injury is the leading cause of death.Brain microvascular endothelial cells,together with astrocytes,pericytes,microglia,and neurons form a selective barrier,the so-called blood-brain barrier,which regulates the movement of molecules inside and outside of the brain.Mechanisms that regulate blood-brain barrier permeability in health and disease are complex and not fully understood.Several newly discovered molecules that are involved in the regulation of cellular processes in brain microvascular endothelial cells have been described in the literature in recent years.One of these molecules that are highly expressed in brain microvascular endothelial cells is protocadherin gamma C3.In this review,we discuss recent evidence that protocadherin gamma C3 is a newly identified key player involved in the regulation of vascular barrier function.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 81373388, 81473374 and 81102830)
文摘Amyloid beta-peptides(Aβ) are known to undergo active transport across the blood-brain barrier, and cerebral amyloid angiopathy has been shown to be a prominent feature in the majority of Alzheimer's disease. Quercetin is a natural flavonoid molecule and has been demonstrated to have potent neuroprotective effects, but its protective effect on endothelial cells under Aβ-damaged condition is unclear. In the present study, the protective effects of quercetin on brain microvascular endothelial cells injured by fibrillar Aβ_(1–40)(f Aβ_(1–40)) were observed. The results show that f Aβ_(1–40)-induced cytotoxicity in human brain microvascular endothelial cells(h BMECs) can be relieved by quercetin treatment. Quercetin increases cell viability, reduces the release of lactate dehydrogenase, and relieves nuclear condensation.Quercetin also alleviates intracellular reactive oxygen species generation and increases superoxide dismutase activity. Moreover, it strengthens the barrier integrity through the preservation of the transendothelial electrical resistance value, the relief of aggravated permeability, and the increase of characteristic enzyme levels after being exposed to f Aβ_(1–40). In conclusion, quercetin protects h BMECs from f Aβ_(1–40)-induced toxicity.
基金NationalMedicine 863Project (No .2 0 0 2AA2Z3 43C)
文摘To prepare a hand-made micropore membrane culture plate insert forco-culture. Methods The plate insert was made using plastic centrifuge tube and micropore membrane.After seeding brain capillary endothelial cells (BCECs) on it (under the effect ofastrocyte-conditioned medium), the plate insert was assessed by analysis of trans-endothelialelectrical resistance (TEER). Results The plate insert has a stability of at least 15 d underculture condition. TEER increased significantly under co-culture condition from (66.1 +- 13.3)Ωcm^2 to (182.2 +- 6.7) Ωcm^2. Conclusion This micropore membrane culture plate insert can beeasily made, on which BCEC culture can be successfully performed. Moreover, it is adjustable andrecyclable. It follows that the plate insert is a useful tool for co-culture and the relatedresearch fields.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31970777).
文摘The blood-brain barrier(BBB)is a protective interface between the central nervous system(CNS)and the circulating blood,and is critical in controlling the movement of ions,molecules and cells to maintain CNS homeostasis.The disruption of BBB is a key event responsible for the pathology in a number of neurological diseases and has also been shown to be involved in the severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2(SARS-CoV-2)infections recently.In this review,we discuss the cellular and molecular components orchestrating BBB formation and function maintenance across species.How this barrier can be modulated for efficient drug delivery into the brain,and how BBB breakdown participates in neurological diseases are discussed.Finally,we highlight the recent work identifying the possible mechanisms by which SARS-CoV-2 invades CNS by crossing BBB in Corona Virus Disease 2019(COVID-19)patients.
