The BBB utilizes various transport mechanisms to regulate the movement of substances. These include:
Diffusion: Small, lipophilic molecules can diffuse through the endothelial cells. Carrier-Mediated Transport: Specific carriers transport essential nutrients like glucose and amino acids. Receptor-Mediated Endocytosis: This allows for the uptake of large molecules like insulin and transferrin. Efflux Pumps: These pumps actively transport potentially harmful substances out of the brain.
