Dear Colleagues,

This special issue explores the intricate and dynamic interactions within the neurovascular unit, emphasizing how endothelial cells, pericytes, astrocytes, glial elements, and neurons work together to maintain blood–brain barrier (BBB) function and integrity.

Key themes include:

Molecular mechanisms of BBB regulation: Insights into tight junction proteins, transport systems, and signaling pathways that control barrier permeability and structural stability.

Intercellular communication: Examination of the cross-talk among endothelial cells, astrocytes, and pericytes that orchestrates responses to physiological and pathological stimuli.

BBB disruption in neurological diseases: Analyses of how conditions such as neurodegeneration, inflammation, trauma, and stroke affect BBB integrity and contribute to disease progression.

Therapeutic strategies and translational potential: Emerging approaches aimed at protecting, repairing, or modulating the BBB, ranging from novel drug delivery systems to molecular targeting of barrier components.

Together, the articles in this issue underscore the importance of decoding cellular and molecular dialogues at the BBB to better understand brain health and develop innovative therapies.

Beatrice Mihaela Radu
Guest Editor