Drug transport in the mammalian central nervous system: Multiple complex systems - A critical analysis and commentary

The rate of entry into and distribution of drugs and endogenous substances within the mammalian central nervous system (CNS) depend on the peculiar an atomy of the blood-brain and blood-cerebrospinal fluid barriers, the physic ochemical nature of the substance or drug, and in many cases, multiple, com plex specialized carriers. This review summarizes a systemic methodological and integrative approach to understanding the pharmacokinetic behavior of many drugs in the CNS in the context of the CNS barrier systems, focusing o n recent data, several broad principles and selected examples. Standards of proof for valid conclusions are emphasized. Copyright (C) 2000 S. Karger A G, Basel.