A synthesized small-molecule drug blocks the TGF-beta receptor in astrocytes and traverses the blood-brain barrier in mice. When administered, the drug lowered receptor activity to that seen in younger mice and reduced inflammation. The aged mice were able to navigate mazes and learn spatial tasks as well as younger mice. Read More
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), chemicals commonly used during the 20th century as flame retardants and in industrial products, disrupt the performance of astrocytes, leading to impaired function. Environmental exposure to PCBs could contribute to a range of neurodegenerative diseases. Read More
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A newly designed thread-like robot can deliver clot reducing therapies in response to stroke or other brain blockages. Read More
Damaged capillaries in the brain may set the stage for the development of Alzheimer's disease, years before symptoms appear. Read More
Using transcranial focused ultrasound in combination with injectable microbubbles, researchers open a pathway through the blood-brain barrier. The technique allows drugs to penetrate the brain and trigger therapeutic effects for those with neurodegenerative diseases. Read More
Using induced pluripotent stem cells derived from patients with neurodegenerative disorders, researcher recreated the blood-brain barrier inside Organ-Chips. Read More
Blocking VCAM1 increased neurogenesis, and reduced microglia reactivity in the hippocampus of older mice. Read More
Adora2a mediating signaling in vascular endothelial cells disrupts the blood-brain barrier in obesity. This, researchers report, could be an underlying mechanism for synaptic plasticity and cognitive deficits in those with insulin resistance and obesity. Read More
Cannabidiol may be able to bypass the blood-brain barrier to effectively deliver medications directly to the brain. Read More
A new study reveals how blood vessels help protect the brain during inflammation. The findings could help in the development of new treatments for neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases. Read More
A new study reports damage to the blood-brain barrier can cause age related cognitive decline, and sheds light on how we could reverse the aging process in the brain. Read More
A new study reports leaky capillaries in the brain may be an early sign of Alzheimer's disease as it can signal cognitive impairment prior to the buildup of proteins associated with the neurodegenerative disease. Read More