Chapter 7 - Blood-Brain Barrier Mechanisms of Edema Formation: The Role of Ion Transporters and Channels

Abstract

This chapter discusses the roles of blood brain barrier (BBB) ion transporters and channels in edema formation occurring during ischemic stroke. While many studies have addressed changes in astrocytes and neurons during stroke, considerably fewer have focused on BBB events and a large portion of those have focused on tight junctions. Relatively little attention has been given to BBB ion transporters and channels despite the fact that they play a critical role in regulating the volume and composition of brain interstitial fluid. In recent years evidence has emerged that luminally located BBB Na+ transporters and K+ channels are stimulated under ischemic conditions to drive transendothelial transport of ions and water from blood into brain, contributing to edema formation during the early hours of ischemic stroke. Targeting these BBB ion transporters and channels appears to be a promising therapeutic avenue for reducing edema and brain damage in stroke.