About this Research Topic
As BBB dysfunction is observed in so many CNS diseases and infections, the question has been raised as to why there are limited explorations on the wider functions of the BBB and its role in the neuro-disease processes. Exploring the wider role of the BBB could lead to the discovery of novel approaches for effective treatments of various brain disorders. Furthermore, as neuro-infections and neurological conditions are mostly brain region-specific, the specific targeting of drugs to the affected brain region is challenging. Moreover, there are limited neuroprotective drugs available, either as a primary or adjunctive treatment. Consequently, to treat the vast variety of CNS diseases, the BBB is a major investigative target for drug delivery methods. Novel approaches, including more in-depth knowledge of the BBB functioning and its heterogeneity in various CNS regions, are needed. This may help developing novel drug delivery strategies, including the identification of novel transport systems. Together with the development of effective nano-carriers to help deliver drugs across the BBB to the affected brain regions, CNS diseases may then be successfully treated.
This Research Topic aims to provide an overview of BBB functioning and brain vascular heterogeneity and to explore its role in neurological diseases and neuro-infections. The goal is to provide improved and specific drug delivery methods that efficiently target novel drugs across the BBB to specific brain regions.
We seek BBB-focused Original Research papers, mini- or full Reviews, or Case Reports and in addition, we welcome manuscripts discussing Hypothesis and Theory, Perspectives, and/or Opinions covering the following topics:
1. Pathophysiological mechanisms underlying BBB dysfunction in neurological disorders, neuro-infections and in neurodegenerative diseases;
2. Identification of novel (small) molecule targets that convey neuro-protections;
3. Strategies to improve drug delivery across the BBB, targeting specific brain regions:
a) Novel approaches for nanoparticle-mediated brain-targeted drug delivery systems;
b) Modifications of physiological transport mechanisms associated with specific BBB regions;
c) Improving methods to specifically and temporarily disrupt the BBB for CNS drug delivery;
4. Exploring the novel drug targets of BBB.
Keywords: Blood-Brain Barrier, Drug Delivery, Neuroinflammation, Neurodegeneration, Brain Disorders, Nanoparticle-Mediated Drug Delivery
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.