Blood Brain Barrier

Blood Brain Barrier

A system designed to prevent substances in the blood from reaching the brain.

Astrocytes

Star-shaped glial cells in the brain that help protect neurons and maintain homeostasis.

Homeostasis

The state of steady internal conditions maintained by living organisms.

Endothelium

A simple squamous tissue that lines blood vessels, including capillaries in the blood brain barrier.

Basement Membrane

A thin layer that separates the endothelium from the underlying connective tissue.

Neurons

Fragile nerve cells that transmit information throughout the brain and body.

Glucose

A simple sugar essential for neuronal energy and function.

Electrolytes

Mineral ions like sodium that help regulate electrical activity in the brain.

Potassium

An electrolyte that is kept out of the brain to prevent possible damage.

Toxins

Harmful substances that should not enter the brain.

Alzheimer's Disease

A progressive neurologic disorder that can be influenced by proteins trapped in the brain.

Carbon Dioxide

A waste gas that must reach the brain to stimulate breathing.

Fat Soluble Substances

Compounds like alcohol that can easily cross the blood brain barrier.

Hypothalamus

A region in the brain where the blood brain barrier is absent; involved in hormone production and homeostasis.

Vomiting Center

An area in the brain lacking a blood brain barrier, allowing it to respond to certain drugs.