Mechanisms of dysfunction of the blood-brain barrier in critically ill patients: emphasis on the role of matrix metalloproteinases

Abstracts

This paper aims to describe the physiological basis of the blood-brain barrier components and its properties. Additionally, the particular effects of metalloproteinases and their control over the extracellular matrix and its relationship with blood-brain barrier dysfunction are discussed. Finally, the role of metalloproteinases on changes in the central nervous system in critically ill patients is discussed.

Blood-brain barrier; Extracellular matrix protein; Matrix metalloproteinases