Neurovascular Unit

Abstract This chapter covers the neurovascular unit, including early experiments on the blood-brain barrier; the neurovascular unit and tight junction proteins; integrins, selectins, and endothelial cell adhesion; astrocytes, pericytes, and basal lamina; movement of substances into and out of the brain; glucose and amino acid transport; proteases and the neurovascular unit; matrix metalloproteinases (MMPS); A disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM); and barrier systems evolved to an endothelial barrier.