ATP Induces Disruption of Tight Junction Proteins via IL-1 Beta-Dependent MMP-9 Activation of Human Blood-Brain Barrier In Vitro

Figure 3

BzATP-induced tight junction disruption and hyperpermeability of endothelial coculture system were attenuated by IL-1β inhibition. (a) The levels of MMP-9 were significantly higher in the BzATP groups than in the control groups (). IL-1RA treatment significantly reduced the level of MMP-9 versus vehicle group (). (b) BzATP induces hyperpermeability versus control groups (), which was decreased by IL-1RA in the coculture system (). (c) Confocal microscopy images of immunofluorescence staining of ZO-1 and occludin demonstrating the protective effect of IL-1RA against BzATP-induced tight junction disruption.