Name: Christoph Hartmann
Diploma / M.Sc degree: Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Germany
(September 2003)
Title: Identification of Extracellular Matrix Components Responsible For Blood-Brain-Barrier Properties

Abstract of Research Project

The blood-brain-barrier (BBB) is formed by brain capillary endothelial cells (BCEC) and protects the central nervous system (CNS) from changes in blood composition. In order to maintain neuronal activity and function, the BBB provides one of the tightest barriers to be found in the body. The special phenotype of BCECs is up to a very high degree influenced by the local environment. Especially extra cellular matrix proteins (ECM), which are found on the interphase between BCECs and astrocytes in the CNS, play a fundamental role in the expression of BBB properties. Major components of the ECM are shared by many tissues but the composition of ECM itself is cell-specific.

One aim of this study is to identify those components of the ECM of BCECs, who have a high impact on BBB formation. Another aim is to verify the role and the regulation of matrix degrading proteases especially regarding the tightness of the BBB.


Christoph Hartmann
eMail: Christoph Hartmann