Drug efficacy can be measured through various assays, such as anti-proliferative effect, assessment of cell viability after treatment, and measuring the distribution of the drug into solid tumor models. However, one of the biggest challenges in drug development is the ability of drugs to penetrate the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and reach the central nervous system (CNS). The BBB is a highly selective semipermeable membrane that separates circulating blood from the CNS. It protects the brain from fluctuations in plasma composition, pathogenic agents, and maintains homeostasis of the brain parenchyma. The BBB is permeable to hydrophobic molecules and utilizes active transport to move ions, glucose, and other critical molecules across the membrane. BBB permeability assessment is critical for drugs targeting regions of the brain, as poor penetration of the BBB is the cause for attrition for 95% of drugs developed for neurological disorders.

Traditional in vivo models are costly and low-throughput, making it difficult to mimic the complex system of the BBB. Additionally, they are unable to accurately predict in vivo outcomes. As such, it is of great interest to explore potential molecules that can modulate BBB permeability. The BBB is a complex hurdle that must be overcome when delivering drugs to the brain.

Our Blood Brain Barrier Model

Our in vitro assay service utilizes a novel BBB in vitro model to assess the penetration kinetics of molecules passing across the BBB and the effect of compounds on the structure and function of the BBB. The assay service allows for both compound transport across the barrier to be studied as well as the effect of compounds on the structure and function of the BBB. The in vitro model is validated with control compounds and reference compounds, and the results show a positive relationship between the apparent permeability seen within in vivo systems to in vitro models.

Our in vitro blood brain barrier permeability assessment can help maximize drug efficacy. By assessing the ability of drug compounds to penetrate the BBB and the effect of compounds on the structure and function of the BBB, our assay service can help predict the BBB permeability of test compounds and identify potential issues before they arise. This can save time and resources in the drug development process, and ultimately lead to more effective drugs for neurological disorders.

The assay services we offer provide clients with more accurate and reliable information for making better informed decisions early in the drug development pipeline. Our assays allow for customized projects, proof-of-concept studies, and milestone-based project management to ensure alignment with client expectations. This unique approach to 3D cell culture model analysis allows for the entire population of cells to be characterized, and we provide comprehensive reports that distill the data to its essential components, giving actionable insights about the experiment.

Work With Us

Drug development for CNS disorders can benefit from the in vitro blood brain barrier permeability assessment. Poor penetration of the BBB can cause attrition for 95% of drugs developed for neurological disorders. Our assay service provides clients with more accurate and reliable information for making better informed decisions early in the drug development pipeline. These services have been used by all of the top 20 pharmaceutical companies and over 1,000 research labs. If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to a member of our team today!

At Visikol, we have pioneered and optimized an in vitro model of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) utilizing a triculture of cells derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells. This model integrates brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs), pericytes, and astrocytes, providing a comprehensive representation of the cellular constituents crucial for BBB function. The primary role of the BBB is to regulate the passage of molecules and cells between the bloodstream and the brain. It permits the entry of essential nutrients and oxygen into the brain while preventing the infiltration of harmful substances such as toxins, pathogens, and certain medications. Due to its unique properties, the BBB poses a significant challenge for drug delivery and therapeutic interventions targeting the brain.

Visikol’s in vitro BBB model has played a crucial role in drug discovery endeavors across academia and industry, facilitating the assessment of drug permeability through the BBB—a pivotal step in the preclinical development of brain-targeted drugs. We conducted an extensive optimization of the primary transportation mechanisms involved in the passage of compounds/molecules across the BBB, which include passive diffusion, receptor-mediated transcytosis, ionic transporters, and efflux pumps such as P-glycoproteins (P-gp).

Figure 1. P-gp efflux pumps in the BBB

P-gp, a key member of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter family, acts as an active efflux pump, utilizing energy derived from ATP hydrolysis to expel a diverse range of substrates from the brain parenchyma back into the bloodstream (Figure 1). In our model’s P-gp functionality validation process, we assessed the permeability of established P-gp substrates—digoxin, loperamide, and talinolol—alongside the use of inhibitors, specifically cyclosporine and elacridar. Substrates were introduced into either the apical or basolateral compartment, with and without P-gp inhibitors, and their apparent permeability coefficients (Papp) were quantified bidirectionally following a 4-hour incubation period using the following equation:

The equation represents the rate of change of cumulative amount  in the receiver chamber over time. A denotes the surface area (cm²) of the membrane, while C₀ represents the initial concentration of the tested compound.

The efflux ratio (ER) quantifies the extent to which compounds are effluxed back by P-gp and is determined by the ratio of Papp(A-B) to Papp (B-A), calculated as follows:

The presented data, illustrated in Figure 2, elucidate a substantial reduction in substrate permeability in the presence of P-gp inhibitors as compared to the substrate alone. These findings affirm the functionality of the P-gp efflux pump in our model, highlighting its potential as a robust readout during lead optimization.

Figure 2. Effect of P-gp inhibitors on substrate’s efflux ratios in our in vitro BBB model

If you’re interested in learning more, please reach out to a member of out team today!

Drug development is a complex and expensive process that requires extensive testing to ensure safety and efficacy. Traditionally, in vivo animal studies have been the gold standard for preclinical testing. However, these studies can be costly, time-consuming, and ethically questionable. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the use of in vitro models as an alternative to in vivo studies for drug development. In this blog post, we will explore the use of in vitro models, such as Visikol’s BBB permeability assay, as a more cost-effective and ethical approach to drug development.

Limitations of In Vivo Studies

In vivo studies have been the standard for preclinical testing for decades. However, these studies have several limitations. One of the main limitations is that animal models do not always translate well to results obtained in human clinical trials, particularly with regard to toxicology. This can lead to costly and time-consuming clinical trials that may ultimately fail due to unforeseen toxicities. Additionally, animal studies can be expensive, time-consuming, and ethically questionable, as they often involve the use of a large numbers of animals.

Benefits of In Vitro Studies

In vitro models can better replicate in vivo characteristics, while also providing a more controlled and standardized environment for testing. In vitro models can also be used to study specific cell types or tissues, which can be difficult or impossible to study in vivo. For example, Visikol’s BBB permeability assay assesses the penetration kinetics of molecules passing across the blood-brain barrier and the effect of compounds on the structure and function of the BBB using a novel BBB in vitro model.

In vitro models are generally more cost-effective than in vivo studies. This is because in vitro models do not require the use of large numbers of animals, and can be performed using smaller amounts of test compounds. Additionally, in vitro models can be performed in a more controlled and standardized environment, which can reduce the variability of results. In vitro models are also generally considered to be more ethical than in vivo studies, as they do not involve animal testing. Regulatory bodies, particularly in the EU, are increasingly pressuring researchers to reduce, refine, and replace animal experiments whenever possible, which may encourage the use of in vitro models.

The scalability of in vitro models may vary depending on the specific model being used, but they can generally be adapted to high-throughput screening formats. This makes them ideal for use in drug discovery and development, where large numbers of compounds need to be screened for efficacy and safety. In vitro models can also be used to study the mechanisms of action of drugs, which can provide valuable insights into the development of new therapeutics.

While in vitro models may have limitations in terms of replicating the complexity of in vivo systems, they can provide valuable information about drug efficacy and safety. Visikol’s BBB permeability assay is a novel in vitro model that can be used to assess the penetration kinetics of molecules passing across the blood-brain barrier and the effect of compounds on the structure and function of the BBB. To learn more about Visikol’s in vitro models and services, please reach out to a member of our team.

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a vital protective barrier that separates the circulating blood from the central nervous system, safeguarding the brain’s delicate environment. Understanding the complex interactions between different cell types within the BBB is crucial for advancing our knowledge of neurological disorders and developing effective treatments. In vitro co-culture models of the BBB and assay development have emerged as powerful tools, offering a more physiologically relevant environment to study the intricate workings of this essential barrier. Visikol’s approach in developing BBB assays to study BBB permeability, transport mechanisms, and drug delivery across this formidable barrier has been unique.

The Visikol BBB co-culture model involves the simultaneous culture of brain endothelial cells, the primary component of the BBB, with other supporting cells, such as astrocytes or pericytes. These models provide an opportunity to investigate the impact of cell-cell interactions on BBB integrity and function. Astrocytes, known as the “caretakers” of the brain, play a critical role in the development and maintenance of the BBB. Co-culturing brain endothelial cells with astrocytes enhances barrier properties, such as tight junction formation and transporter expression, creating a more faithful representation of the BBB in vitro. Pericytes, another important cell type found in brain capillaries, contribute to BBB stability, and can be incorporated into co-culture models to study their influence on barrier function.

Unraveling BBB Permeability

In vitro BBB assays involve the replication of the BBB in a controlled laboratory environment, allowing researchers to investigate the permeability of molecules across the barrier. These assays typically use brain endothelial cells cultured on porous inserts to mimic the BBB endothelium. By exposing these cell monolayers to various compounds, researchers can measure the ability of substances to cross the barrier and gain insight into BBB permeability characteristics. This information is vital in understanding how different molecules, including drugs, nutrients, and toxins, interact with the BBB and affect brain health. In addition to permeability studies, in vitro BBB assays enable the investigation of specific transport mechanisms involved in the movement of molecules across the barrier. The BBB actively regulates the passage of nutrients, ions, and signaling molecules into the brain while preventing the entry of harmful substances. In vitro assays allow researchers to study and quantify the activity of specific transporters, such as efflux pumps and carrier proteins, that play a crucial role in maintaining BBB integrity and function. Understanding these transport mechanisms is essential for optimizing drug delivery to the brain and developing strategies to overcome the limitations posed by the BBB. Visikol has successfully developed this BBB assay for small molecules and antibody proteins to pass/or not pass through the barrier and then quantitatively measure the permeability of the small molecules across the barrier.

Figure 1. Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells (Blue) are cultured on the top of the transwell and Pericytes and Astrocytes are cultured (Orange and Green) on the bottom of the transwell to form a barrier that mimics an in vivo model.

Applications of BBB assay

Visikol’s in vitro BBB model helps in accelerating the drug discovery and development. Assessing the ability of potential drug candidates to cross the BBB is crucial for designing effective therapies for neurological disorders. In vitro assays provide a screening platform to evaluate the permeability and transport of drug molecules across the BBB. The Visikol BBB model has been physiologically relevant cell models and mimic the dynamic conditions of the BBB and help in predicting drug penetration and assessing the potential efficacy of drug candidates. This information guides the development of targeted drug delivery strategies that can effectively reach the brain and improve treatment outcomes. In vitro BBB assays are invaluable tools in advancing the understanding of neurological diseases.

In vitro BBB assays have revolutionized the field of neuroscience by providing researchers with a controlled platform to study BBB permeability, transport mechanisms, and drug delivery to the brain. With ongoing advancements in technology and methodologies, in vitro BBB assays will continue to play a crucial role in decoding the brain’s fortress, fostering breakthroughs in neuroscience research, and improving the lives of those affected by neurological diseases.

If you’re interested in learning more about our Blood Brain Barrier Assay, please reach out to a member of our team today!

Drug discovery and development is a complex and expensive process that involves the identification and optimization of compounds that can effectively treat diseases. One of the biggest challenges in drug development is the blood-brain barrier (BBB), a highly selective semipermeable membrane that separates circulating blood from the central nervous system. The BBB protects the brain from fluctuations in plasma composition, pathogenic agents, and maintains homeostasis of the brain parenchyma. However, poor penetration of the BBB is the cause for attrition for 95% of drugs developed for neurological disorders. In vitro models, such as Visikol’s BBB in vitro model, allow for the assessment of compound transport across the barrier as well as the effect of compounds on the structure and function of the BBB.

In Vitro Models

In vitro models offer several advantages over in vivo models, including cost-effectiveness, high-throughput screening, and the ability to study specific cell types. In vitro models can also be used to address ethical concerns related to the use of animals in drug development.

Visikol’s in vitro BBB permeability assay is a gold-standard testing platform that assesses the penetration kinetics of molecules passing across the BBB and allows for the exploration of potential molecules that can modulate BBB permeability. The assay is validated with control compounds and reference compounds, and the results show a positive relationship between the apparent permeability seen within in vivo systems to in vitro models. Visikol’s expertise in advanced imaging and image analysis, 3D cell culture models, and AI-enhanced digital pathology allows for the transformation of tissues into actionable insights and bridging the gap between in vitro assays and in vivo results through the use of best-in-class cell culture models.

The Blood Brain Barrier Permeability Assay

The BBB permeability assay offered by Visikol is critical for drugs targeting regions of the brain, as poor penetration of the BBB is the cause for attrition for 95% of drugs developed for neurological disorders. Disruption of the BBB is observed in many neurological disorders, including multiple sclerosis, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, and traumatic brain injury, and is frequently induced by neuroinflammation. Visikol’s in vitro model is cultured over 4 days to establish a viable barrier and dosed with test articles for twenty-four hours. The assay service allows for both compound transport across the barrier to be studied as well as the effect of compounds on the structure and function of the BBB. The apparent permeability of test compounds in either the apical or basal direction and the change in apparent permeability of BBB due to the effect of drug compound can be measured.

In vitro models are critical for drug discovery and development, especially in the case of neurological disorders where the BBB poses a significant challenge. Visikol’s in vitro BBB permeability assay is a gold-standard testing platform that allows for the assessment of compound transport across the barrier as well as the effect of compounds on the structure and function of the BBB. The assay can help accelerate drug discovery and development by providing critical insights into the penetration kinetics of molecules passing across the BBB and the modulation of BBB permeability due to drug treatment. Visikol’s expertise in advanced imaging and image analysis, 3D cell culture models, and AI-enhanced digital pathology makes it a valuable partner for pharmaceutical companies, pharmaceutical scientists, biochemists, medicinal chemists, pharmacologists, and toxicologists.

If you are interested in learning more about Visikol’s in vitro Blood Brain Barrier Permeability Assessment, please reach out to a member of our team today.

There is a race in the pharmaceutical industry that aims to treat neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease. This growing interest in the neuroscience sector has more scientists looking into various modes of treatment. With various mechanisms of action for drugs for treatment, it is imperative to have a functioning and working model to test out various compounds.

The Blood Brain Barrier

To fully understand the complex network and biological and chemical structure of the neurological pathways involved in treating diseases, one of the first things to learn is how to introduce a working compound into the brain. The brain is protected by the Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) which is a highly specified membrane that is permeable to only a certain compound and is an essential point of study, due to its high selectivity. Large, as well as small, molecules are being experimentally introduced to the brain in in vivo and in vitro models that mimic the behaviors of the BBB cells, such as pericytes, astrocytes and BMEC. Not only does this require a hands-on cell culture method, but also a validated analytical method for the compounds of interest. Using the LC-MS/MS and NanoLC instruments to evaluate the cellular media and the compounds of interest gives a deeper insight on the activities of the cells in the BBB, as well as the chemistry behind the compounds that do or do not work.

The nervous system, especially the brain, is a very difficult area to work with since there are no efficacious and known ways to fully regenerate damaged nerves or nervous cells. It is a topic of great interest, as 1 in 6 people in the world suffer from neurological diseases and damage. Although modern science is advancing quickly and research is pushing the boundaries of applied medicine, it is still a gray area with a lot of unknown variables.

Here at Visikol, our BBB model hopes to contribute to a variety of nervous system studies and research. Our validated small molecule panels have similar results to an in vivo model and can help in understanding the behavior of various compounds of interest. Reach out to us for more information on how Visikol’s BBB models can help your project.

Drug discovery is a complex and time-consuming process that involves identifying and developing new drugs to treat a variety of diseases. One of the biggest challenges in drug development is getting the drug to the target site in the body. For drugs targeting regions of the brain, poor penetration of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is the cause for attrition for 95% of drugs developed for neurological disorders. This is where Visikol’s in vitro blood brain barrier permeability assay can revolutionize the drug discovery process.

The Blood Brain Barrier

The BBB is a highly selective semipermeable membrane that separates circulating blood from the central nervous system. It protects brain nervous tissue from the fluctuation of plasma composition, from pathogenic agents, and maintains homeostasis of the brain parenchyma by restricting non-specific flux of ions, peptides, proteins, and cells into and out of the brain. The BBB is important in drug development because poor penetration of the BBB is the cause for attrition for 95% of drugs developed for neurological disorders. As such, it is of great interest to explore potential molecules that can modulate BBB permeability.

In the past, assessing BBB permeability was a challenge, as it required costly, low-throughput animal studies. However, with the advent of in vitro models, it is now possible to assess BBB permeability in a more cost-effective and efficient manner. In vitro models are created by culturing 3D BBB models over 4 days to establish a viable barrier, then dosing the models with test articles for twenty-four hours. The in vitro model is validated with control compounds and reference compounds to compare differences in compound penetration across the BBB as a function of time. The advantages of in vitro methods over in vivo methods include lower cost, higher throughput, and the ability to study BBB permeability without the ethical concerns associated with animal studies.

Visikol’s BBB Assay

Visikol’s assay service is an in vitro assay that assesses the penetration kinetics of molecules passing across the BBB and the effect of compounds on the structure and function of the BBB. The assay service allows for both compound transport across the barrier to be studied as well as the effect of compounds on the structure and function of the BBB. The in vitro model is validated with control compounds and reference compounds, and the results show a positive relationship between the apparent permeability seen within in vivo systems to in vitro models.

The BBB assay offered by Visikol is a game-changer in drug discovery. By using a novel BBB in vitro model, Visikol offers an in vitro assay capable of assessing the penetration kinetics of molecules passing across the BBB, which allows for both compound transport across the barrier to be studied as well as the effect of compounds on the structure and function of the BBB. This can help reduce the risk of failure in clinical trials by identifying compounds that are more likely to penetrate the BBB and reach the brain parenchyma in therapeutically relevant concentrations.

Visikol’s expertise lies in transforming tissues into actionable insights and bridging the gap between in vitro assays and in vivo results through the use of best-in-class cell culture models. The company provides end-to-end services that include 3D tissue imaging, multiplex tissue imaging, digital pathology, high content imaging, 2D cell culture assays, 3D cell culture assays, and ex vivo tissue slice assays. The company has several patented and proprietary technologies for tissue imaging, tissue processing, and image analysis.

This BBB assay is a valuable tool for drug discovery and development. By providing insights into the BBB permeability of test compounds, Visikol’s assay service can help reduce the risk of failure in clinical trials and improve the chances of success for drugs targeting regions of the brain. To learn more about Visikol’s in vitro blood brain barrier permeability assessment, reach out to a member of our team today.

The recent advancements in microphysiological systems (MPS) and their ability to recreate the in vivo environment within an in vitro system have led to the development of novel assays, including the Visikol blood-brain barrier (BBB) assay. The BBB is a highly selective barrier that separates the central nervous system (CNS) from the rest of the body and regulates the exchange of molecules between them. The BBB is a complex and dynamic structure, making it challenging to study within in vitro systems. The Visikol BBB assay provides a unique opportunity to study the BBB in a controlled environment, allowing researchers to gain a better understanding of its properties and functions.

FDA Modernization Act 2.0

Recently, through the passage of the FDA Modernization Act 2.0 , the FDA has opened the door for the use of these models in more widespread applications. The FDA Modernization Act 2.0 aims to streamline the drug development process and make it more efficient, while also ensuring the safety and efficacy of new drugs. One of the key provisions of the act is the use of MPS, which includes the Visikol BBB assay as well as its other advanced in vitro assays, as part of the Investigational New Drug (IND) submission process.

The IND submission process is the first step in the approval process for a new drug. During the IND submission process, the sponsor of the drug must provide data demonstrating the safety and efficacy of the drug in animal studies. The use of the Visikol BBB assay as part of the IND submission process will provide the FDA with additional information on the safety and efficacy of new drugs.

Visikol’s BBB Assay

The Visikol BBB assay is particularly useful for studying the CNS effects of new drugs. The BBB is known to be a major obstacle for the CNS delivery of drugs, and the Visikol BBB assay provides a unique opportunity to study the BBB in a controlled environment. The assay can be used to study the transport of drugs across the BBB, as well as their distribution within the CNS. This information can then be used to optimize the formulation of new drugs to improve their CNS delivery.

The Visikol BBB assay is a valuable tool for the drug development process, and its use as part of the IND submission process is becoming more widespread now that the FDA Modernization Act 2.0 has passed. The assay provides a unique opportunity to study the BBB in an in vitro environment, allowing researchers to gain a better understanding of its properties and functions. The assay can be used to study the transport of drugs across the BBB, as well as their distribution within the CNS, and to study the potential toxic effects of new drugs on the BBB. The use of the Visikol BBB assay as part of the IND submission process will provide the FDA with additional information on the safety and efficacy of new drugs, making the drug development process more efficient and ensuring the safety and efficacy of new drugs.

If you are interested in discussing your next CNS program with us, reach out today.

Each morning the first thing a person does is think about their day. It may start with making coffee and taking the dog outside or waking the children up for school. No matter what the task is, every day begins with a thought, a movement, or a word that would not be possible without the most complex organ in the human body, the brain. Neurological disorders can be amongst the most frightening to hear when being diagnosed by a doctor. Multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s disease, and Parkinson’s Disease are among those disorders which are constantly being observed in the brain. But imagine being diagnosed with an illness that is not typically located in the brain, but one that migrates there.

Visikol’s Blood Brain Barrier Model

Breast Cancer, along with other cancers, is an example of a disease that can spread to the brain which means the therapeutics used to treat the disease in these cases need to cross the blood brain barrier.  Scientists at Visikol have redesigned their Blood Brain Barrier model to increase throughput and affordability, making it readily available for their clients. This assay utilizes human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) derived Astrocytes, Pericytes, and Brain Microvascular Endothelial Cells to form the barrier in a transwell system. The cells are strategically added to the transwell membrane in a way to mimic that of an in vivo model. Once the cells are added to the transwell, the blood brain barrier begins to form and is measured using Trans-epithelial Electrical Resistance (TEER). The analysis of permeability for test articles of interest can be customized for the particular test article. Examples of these methods are LCMS/MS, plate reader, ELISA, and qPCR. This model can be used to assess the permeability of therapeutics to treat many different diseases.

EGFR Inhibitors

The graphs shown below are examples of the extensive validations these researchers have worked on. Figure 1 is a graph showing the LCMS/MS permeability results of Gefitinib and Osimertinib, which are two EGFR inhibitors used to combat multiple types of cancer including shrink brain tumors. Osimertinib, Generation 3, has improved permeability across the barrier when compared to Gefitinib, Generation 1. Figure 2 is showing the receptor mediated transcytosis of the Transferrin protein. The transferrin protein binds to the transferrin receptors on the cells of the blood brain barrier which carry it across. The inhibitor, Ferrostatin II, is a compound that binds to the receptor, blocking the transferrin protein from binding and being carried across.

If you are interested in learning more about this assay, or any of the other many new research opportunities at Visikol, please reach out to our team. We are always interested in working together with our clients as a team to develop customized assays to best suit their needs.

If you are interested in learning more about this assay, or any of the other many new research opportunities at Visikol, please reach out to our team. We are always interested in working together with our clients as a team to develop customized assays to best suit their needs.

Notoriously known for its symptoms of mental decline, Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a common disease that is mainly found in elderly adults. Symptoms are memory decline, confusion, poor memory retention, and the inability for basic comprehension (severe cases). The cure for this disease remains an elusive one, with numerous pharmaceutical companies continually going through clinical trials, developing new compounds, and researching for targets and receptors. A revolutionary medicinal breakthrough, if achieved, has pharmaceutical companies across the globe racing to find the cure.

The BBB and Alzheimer’s Disease

The brain is an essential organ that dictates our thoughts, movements, and behaviors. Due to its sensitivity and importance, the brain is inherently protected by what’s called the blood brain barrier (BBB), which is composed of glial cells, pericytes and neurons. It is a highly selective and complex, it is found in the blood vessels of the brain (system called neurovascular unit or NVU), and it is semi-permeable to few compounds. This is important when addressing the cures for AD, as therapeutic compounds will need to effectively penetrate the said barrier since AD is a progressive degenerative condition that will not improve, even with medications. Once diagnosed, the patient’s neural health goes on a decline, with no way of reversing the trend. It is caused by an abnormal accumulation of β-amyloid plaques and Tau proteins, which are proteins that are toxic to neurons and blocks cell-to-cell signaling. As it turns out, having a healthy BBB aids in metabolizing these toxic proteins and maintaining chronic inflammation from these protein aggregates. It was also found that an early breakdown of the BBB is associated with AD as well as onset dementia, which further proves the importance of BBB in neurodegenerative diseases (Montagne, et al).

Treatments

Most of the treatments being developed treats for different aspect of the disease. As of January 2022, 31 compounds were in 47 trials in Phase 3, 82 compounds in 94 trials in Phase 2, and 30 compounds in 31 trials in Phase 1 and of those compounds 83.2% were disease-modifying therapies, 9.8% for symptomatic cognitive enhancing treatment and 6.9% for neuropsychiatric symptoms (Cummings, et al). In January 2022, out of the 85 compounds in clinical trials phase 2, only 2 compounds claimed to aid in BBB penetration.

AD is a difficult disease to treat, more research and studies need to be done. Here, at Visikol, we offer an array of different assays, which include our new in vitro BBB permeability model. Reach out today to consult with our specialist about the assays available for your studies.

References:

Zenaro, Elena, et al. “The Blood-Brain Barrier in Alzheimer’s Disease.” Neurobiology of Disease, vol. 107, 2017, pp. 41–56., https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nbd.2016.07.007.