The blood-brain barrier protects the brain
A) mostly during fetal development.
B) from toxic chemicals.
C) by maintaining a blood supply for the brain that is separate from the rest of the body.
D) through the action of microglial cells that reduce the permeability of small blood vessels.
E) Both b and d

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a protective barrier that separates the blood from the brain and spinal cord. It helps to maintain a stable environment for the brain and protects it from toxic chemicals and other harmful substances. The BBB is formed by the endothelial cells of the brain's blood vessels, which are tightly connected to each other and have a low permeability to water and other molecules. Microglial cells, which are a type of immune cell, also help to maintain the BBB by reducing the permeability of small blood vessels.

The Blood-Brain Barrier Protects the Brain