The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is one of the unique aspects of the circulation to the brain. The BBB plays an absolutely essential role in brain health, and it has been known for years that BBB integrity and function are impacted by stroke (ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke). In recent years, it has become apparent that virtually every major category of neurological and psychiatric disorder is associated with changes in the BBB. Examples include migraine, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, depression, autism spectrum disorder, and traumatic brain injury. Thus, this monograph on the BBB is a very timely publication. <br>
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The work is presented by two experts with many contributions in this area including sites of BBB injury, the role of veins, the impact of major risk factors for cerebrovascular disease (including hypertension and diabetes), and the importance of hemodynamic factors in BBB integrity. The text is organized into four major sections, supported by numerous figures and over 300 references. The presentation provides an up-to-date synthesis of work in the area. Major sections include characteristics of the BBB, ultrastructure and molecular details, along with the impact of specific cell types. Similarities and differences between the BBB and the cerebrospinal fluid barriers are included. Lastly, there are sections on effects of major diseases on the BBB and their consequences. Because the biology of the BBB in an area that only continues to grow n interest from both basic and clinical researchers, this should be a very useful text. It is also an excellent companion to the second edition of <a href="http://www.morganclaypoolpublishers.com/catalog_O- rig/product_info.php?products_id=960" target="_blank">The Cerebral Circulation</a> by Dr. Marilyn Cipolla within the same series on Integrated Systems Physiology: From Molecule to Function to Disease.