COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 590
cerebral vasculature features endothelial cells connected by tight
junctions, creating a formidable barrier that maintains brain
homeostasis and protects the central nervous system (CNS) from
potentially harmful substances [2].
When functioning optimally, the BBB allows selective transport of
essential nutrients while blocking pathogens, toxins, and
inflammatory mediators. However, disruption of BBB integrity has
emerged as a fundamental pathophysiological mechanism
underlying numerous neurological disorders, from traumatic injuries
to neurodegenerative diseases [3, 4, 5]. As research advances,
BBB dysfunction is increasingly recognized as not merely a
consequence, but often a significant initiating factor in brain
pathology [6, 7].
The growing recognition of BBB integrity's role in neurological
health has created an urgent need for reliable, sensitive methods
to assess barrier function. Cyrex Array 20 represents an important
advance in this area, offering clinicians a blood-based assessment
tool focused specifically on BBB permeability.
What is Cyrex Array 20?
The Array 20 Blood-Brain Barrier Permeability Screen™ from Cyrex
Laboratories measures immune responses against critical proteins
that maintain the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) [8]. It
detects IgG, IgA, and IgM antibody activity against key BBB
structures, including S100B and Claudin-5, which act as protective
gates, preventing harmful substances from entering the brain.
Damage to the blood-brain barrier can allow toxins, pathogens,
immune cells, and inflammatory molecules to access the brain,
increasing the risk of neuroinflammation, autoimmune
neurological diseases, and neurodegenerative conditions [9, 10].
The Molecular Architecture of the Blood-Brain Barrier
Understanding the specific markers assessed in Array 20 requires
familiarity with BBB structure and function at the molecular level:
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