Interaction of Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells with Neural Progenitor Cells

• Applicant: Dr. Christian Weidenfeller
• Subject Area: Molecular Biology and Physiology of Neurons and Glial Cells
• Term: from 2006 to 2007
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 20969301

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is built up by a specialized network of capillaries in the brain. It controls the passage of substances that enter and leave the brain parenchyma and is responsible for brain homeostasis. The microvascular endothelial cells form the cellular basis of the BBB by forming tight cell-cell contacts that prevent the uncontrolled passage of blood-borne substances while at the same time mediating the directed transport of nutrients into the brain. Due to its impermeability the BBB also limits the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) diseases. Therefore, it is important to understand the processes governing the development and maintenance of BBB properties. In vivo, brain capillaries are in close contact to other cell types such as astrocytes, pericytes, and neurons. However, the developmental cues provided by the developing CNS that provide BBB maturation are not yet well understood. During the developmental period, the brain cortices contain neural progenitor cells (NPCs) that ultimately give rise to the astrocytes, neurons, and oligodendrocytes. The goal of this study is to establish a new in vitro model of the BBB consisting of endothelial cells and NPCs. With this model it will be possible to investigate the interaction between brain endothelial cells and NPCs to gain a deeper understanding of BBB development. In addition, such a model would potentially assist in the development of new strategies for stem cell treatment of diseases that have BBB involvement.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: USA
• Host: Professor Dr. Eric V. Shusta