Abstract
In this study we aimed to demonstrate the advantages of using a quadruple culture model of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in vitro in comparison with a common triple culture model, as well as to show the impact of pericytes on endothelial cells of the BBB. We co-cultured primary rat brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs), pericytes, astrocytes and neurons in a Transwell BBB model in vitro. Then, we carried out quantitative analysis to compare transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) values, as well as expression levels of tight junction proteins, ZO1 and JAM1, in the triple culture and the quadruple culture Transwell BBB models in vitro. According to the obtained data, the quadruple culture model of the BBB in vitro has advantages over the triple culture model, since the presence of pericytes is accompanied by higher TEER values and higher expression levels of tight junction proteins in endothelial cells. The results presented in the study are consistent with the world scientific literature and confirm the hypothesis that pericytes not only offer mechanical support for endothelial cells, but also play a key role in signaling networks between different cell types of the neurovascular unit (NVU) and thus regulate the barrier functions of the BBB. According to this, co-culture of BMECs, astrocytes, and neurons with pericytes is essential for BMECs optimum phenotype and offers a closer representation of the in vivo environment.
Published Version
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