Computational and Pharmacological Target of Neurovascular Unit for Drug Design and Delivery

Biomed Res Int. 2015:2015:731292. doi: 10.1155/2015/731292. Epub 2015 Oct 22.

Abstract

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a dynamic and highly selective permeable interface between central nervous system (CNS) and periphery that regulates the brain homeostasis. Increasing evidences of neurological disorders and restricted drug delivery process in brain make BBB as special target for further study. At present, neurovascular unit (NVU) is a great interest and highlighted topic of pharmaceutical companies for CNS drug design and delivery approaches. Some recent advancement of pharmacology and computational biology makes it convenient to develop drugs within limited time and affordable cost. In this review, we briefly introduce current understanding of the NVU, including molecular and cellular composition, physiology, and regulatory function. We also discuss the recent technology and interaction of pharmacogenomics and bioinformatics for drug design and step towards personalized medicine. Additionally, we develop gene network due to understand NVU associated transporter proteins interactions that might be effective for understanding aetiology of neurological disorders and new target base protective therapies development and delivery.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Blood-Brain Barrier / metabolism*
  • Computer Simulation
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods*
  • Drug Design*
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological*
  • Neurovascular Coupling / drug effects
  • Neurovascular Coupling / physiology*
  • Pharmacokinetics*