Explain the makeup and function of the blood brain barrier.
Microbiology 250 HY01
Unit 11 As1
Amna Abdalla
April 22, 2018
Your brain is one of the most important organs in the human body. This magnificent cluster of neurons and tissues contribute to the thoughts in one’s head, movement of one’s limbs, and subconscious actions like breathing to keep us alive. Nevertheless, whilst most organs share the recycled blood in our bodies, the brain, being the superior organ that it is, has its own pool of blood that protects, nourishes, and cleans it. In this essay we will explore what exactly the Blood Brain barrier is, its makeup, and function.
What is the Blood Brain Barrier? What is its makeup?
The Blood Brain Barrier or (BBB), is a protective
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Penetration of the Blood Brain Barrier.
There are multiple limitations of penetration in the BBB. There are very minimal movement of the materials from the systemic circulation to the brain, which buffer in the brain changes rapid ionic or metabolic conditions.
Why is the movement of the Blood Brain Barrier So Limited? The limited BBB penetration also protects the brain from exposure to molecules that are harmless to peripheral organs, but toxic neurons in the brain. BBB penetration affects neurons, extracellular matrix, and non-neuronal cells, including astrocytes, pericytes, and vascular endothelial cells. These cells along with an extracellular matrix, function as a neuro-unit unit to regulate BBB permeability and maintain integrity and function on the central nervous system.
In conclusion The Blood Brain Barrier is extremely essential to ensuring our survival and protecting our sensitive brain. The chemical composition of the BBB helps maintain a suitable environment for the brain allowing it to thrive and remain protected in its own juices. Should anything happen to ones BBB, they can experience some horrendous consequences.
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