title: Mechanisms of dysfunction of the blood-brain barrier in critically ill patients: emphasis on the role of matrix metalloproteinases.
abstract: This paper aims to describe the physiological basis of the blood-brain barrier components and its properties. Additionally, the particular effects of metalloproteinases and their control over the extracellular matrix and its relationship with blood-brain barrier dysfunction are discussed. Finally, the role of metalloproteinases on changes in the central nervous system in critically ill patients is discussed.
authors.affiliation: Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brasil.
authors.forename: Hugo
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Rojas
authors.affiliation: Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brasil.
authors.forename: Cristiane
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Ritter
authors.affiliation: Universidade do Extremo Sul Catarinense, Criciúma, SC, Brasil.
authors.forename: Felipe Dal
authors.initials: FD
authors.lastname: Pizzol