Chronic stress can also lead to the disruption of the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB). The brain is unique among all other organs, for it has a special membrane structure that blocks the majority of chemicals from entering the brain through the blood. [1]However, the brain is particularly susceptible to chronic stress, especially in early childhood and old age. [2]When under conditions of stress for a long period of time, stress may transiently open the Blood-Brain Barrier and therefore let toxins, drugs or other unfavorable chemicals into the brain.[3]
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- ^ “Stress May Disturb The Blood-Brain Barrier.” BMJ: British Medical Journal, vol. 313, no. 7071, 1996, pp. 1505–1505. www.jstor.org/stable/29733791.
- ^ Lupien, Sonia J.; McEwen, Bruce S.; Gunnar, Megan R.; Heim, Christine (2009-06-01). "Effects of stress throughout the lifespan on the brain, behaviour and cognition". Nature Reviews Neuroscience. 10 (6): 434–445. doi:10.1038/nrn2639. ISSN 1471-003X.
- ^ D. Vergano. “Stress May Weaken the Blood-Brain Barrier.” Science News, vol. 150, no. 24, 1996, pp. 375–375. www.jstor.org/stable/3980196.