Blood–Brain Barrier Dysfunction in Neurodegenerative Disorders

Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to invite submissions to this Special Issue entitled “Blood–Brain Barrier Dysfunction in Neurodegenerative Disorders”.

The brain requires vascularization and a tight regulation of nutrients and waste products. Therefore, the cerebrovascular unit, represented by the blood–brain barrier (BBB), plays a vital role in regulating cerebral blood flow and the transport of molecules between the blood vasculature and brain parenchyma. The BBB establishes the microenvironment in the brain to achieve homeostasis, ensure efficient neuronal function, and provide basic protection against pathogens and toxins. Recent findings suggest that a dysfunctional BBB contributes to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and related dementias (ADRD). While it is yet to be determined which occurs first—the breakdown of the BBB or the neurodegenerative disorders—reports have linked chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, with BBB disruption and ADRD. Through original and up-to-date review articles, this Special Issue will discuss new developments in the field of BBB dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases. Topics of interest are those that incorporate BBB breakdown and dysfunction into the pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, including AD, ADRD, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Huntington’s disease, and other brain diseases. Furthermore, articles focusing on BBB targeting for therapeutic development to restore barrier function are also welcome. Studies reporting findings from clinical trials that integrate mechanistic studies are also invited.

Prof. Dr. Amal Kaddoumi
Guest Editor

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