Until now, scientists have not known exactly how inflammation weakens
the Blood-Brain Barrier, allowing toxins and other molecules access to
the brain. A new research report appearing in the June 2014 issue of The FASEB Journal
solves this mystery by showing that a molecule, called "microRNA-155,"
is responsible for cleaving epithelial cells to create microscopic gaps
that let material through. Not only does this discovery help explain the
molecular underpinnings of diseases like multiple sclerosis, but it
also opens an entirely new avenue for developing therapies that can help
penetrate the Blood-Brain Barrier to deliver lifesaving drugs.
the Blood-Brain Barrier, allowing toxins and other molecules access to
the brain. A new research report appearing in the June 2014 issue of The FASEB Journal
solves this mystery by showing that a molecule, called "microRNA-155,"
is responsible for cleaving epithelial cells to create microscopic gaps
that let material through. Not only does this discovery help explain the
molecular underpinnings of diseases like multiple sclerosis, but it
also opens an entirely new avenue for developing therapies that can help
penetrate the Blood-Brain Barrier to deliver lifesaving drugs.
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