Endothelial Cells and the Blood–Brain Barrier: Critical Determinants of Ineffective Reperfusion in Stroke

Abstract

Ineffective reperfusion remains a critical challenge in neurointerventional treatment following ischemic stroke, with the integrity of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) being a key determinant of patient outcomes. This review explores the distinctive characteristics and roles of brain endothelial cells (ECs) in the context of stroke and ineffective reperfusion. We examine the unique properties of brain ECs compared to their counterparts in other tissues, focusing on their pathophysiological changes, functional impairments and the inflammatory cascades that follow stroke. Differences in gene expression between brain ECs and those in other organs offer deeper insights into their role in neuroprotective therapies. Additionally, drawing parallels between brain ECs and ECs from organs with similar ischemia–reperfusion injury profiles may inspire novel therapeutic approaches. This review highlights the critical importance of understanding the nuanced roles of ECs in BBB regulation, which ultimately impacts reperfusion outcomes.