The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a dynamic interface that separates the brain from the circulatory system and protects the central nervous system from potentially harmful chemicals while regulating transport of essential molecules and maintaining a stable environment.

The blood-brain barrier (BBB)  is formed by highly specialized endothelial cells that line brain capillaries and transduce signals from the vascular system and from the brain. The structure and function of the BBB is dependent upon the complex interplay between the different cell types (such as the endothelial cells, astrocytes, and pericytes), and the extracellular matrix of the brain and blood flow in the capillaries.

The Johns Hopkins Blood-Brain Barrier Working Group brings together researchers with diverse interests and expertise to address key problems associated with drug delivery, the role of the BBB in disease, and the structure and function of the BBB.

Working group chairs

• Peter C. Searson, PhD, director of the Institute for NanoBioTechnology, professor of materials science and engineering at the Whiting School of Engineering
• Jeffrey D. Rothstein, MD, PhD, director of the Brain Science Institute at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine