Overview of blood-brain barrier dysfunction in methamphetamine abuse

Lu Pang; Yun Wang

doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114478

Overview of blood-brain barrier dysfunction in methamphetamine abuse

Biomed Pharmacother. 2023 May:161:114478. doi: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114478. Epub 2023 Mar 14.

Authors

Lu Pang¹, Yun Wang²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Department of Pharmacy, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
² Department of Clinical Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China. Electronic address: ywang28@cmu.edu.cn.

PMID: 37002574
DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114478

Abstract

Methamphetamine (METH) is one of the psychostimulants most widely abused in the world. METH abuse can lead to severe neurotoxicity. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a natural barrier separating the central nervous system (CNS) from the peripheral blood circulation, which can limit or regulate the exchange of toxic substances, molecules, ions, etc., to maintain the homeostasis of CNS. Long-term or high dose abuse of METH can cause structural or functional abnormalities of the BBB and increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we discussed the mechanisms of METH-induced BBB dysfunction, summarized the risk factors that could exacerbate METH-induced BBB dysfunction, and introduced some potential therapeutic agents. It would provide an important basis and direction for the prevention and treatment of BBB dysfunction induced by METH.

Keywords: Blood-brain barrier; Hyperthermia; Methamphetamine; Neuroinflammation; Oxidative stress; Transport abnormalities.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Amphetamine-Related Disorders*
Blood-Brain Barrier
Central Nervous System Stimulants* / toxicity
Humans
Methamphetamine* / adverse effects
Neurotoxicity Syndromes*

Substances

Central Nervous System Stimulants
Methamphetamine