blood-brain barrier disruption

Definition / meaning of blood-brain barrier disruption

The use of drugs to create openings between cells in the blood-brain barrier. The blood-brain barrier is a protective network of blood vessels and tissue that protects the brain from harmful substances, but can also prevent anticancer drugs from reaching the brain. Once the barrier is opened, anticancer drugs may be infused into an artery that goes to the brain, in order to treat brain tumors. Also called BBBD.

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Source(s):

The Web site of the National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/)

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