Brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMEC), the major component of the blood-brain barrier, limit the passage of substances, both soluble and cellular, from the blood into the brain. BMEC utilize unique features to distinguish themselves from peripheral endothelial cells, such as 1) intercellular tight junctions that display high electrical resistance and slow paracellular transport, 2) the absence of fenestrae and a reduced level of pinocytic activity, and 3) the expression of specialized pumps that can transport compounds out of the brain via the blood-brain barrier [1-3]. Similar to peripheral endothelial cells, BMEC express, or can be induced to express, cell adhesion molecules on their surface that regulate the extravasation of leukocytes into the brain. Cultured rat BMEC have been widely used for studying the molecular and cellular properties of blood-brain barrier because of their unique functions. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of blood-brain barrier regulation may help to optimize drug delivery to the CNS and elucidate new therapies for CNS diseases.
Recommended Medium
It is recommended to use Endothelial Cell Medium-rat (ECM-r, Cat. No. SC1021) for culturing ECM in vitro.
Product Use
This product is for research use only. It is not approved for use in humans, animals, or in vitro diagnostic procedures.
Storage
Upon receiving, directly and immediately transfer the cells from dry ice to liquid nitrogen and keep the cells in liquid nitrogen until they are needed for experiments.
Shipping
Dry ice
Warranty
Cells are only warranted if ScienCell media and reagents are used and the recommended protocols are followed.
References
[1] Crone C, Oleson SP. (1992) "Electrical resistance of brain microvessel endothelium." Brain Res. 241: 49-55. [2] Reese TS, Karnovsky MJ. (1967) "Fine structural localization of blood-brain barrier to exogenous peroxidase." J Cell Biol. 34: 9-14. [3] Wolburg H, Neuhaus J, Kniesel U, Kraub B, Schmid EM, Ocalan M, Farrell C, Risau W. (1994) "Modulation of tight junction structure in blood-brain barrier endothelial cells." J Cell Sci. 107: 1347-1357.