In the human body, the 'Blood-Brain Barrier' (BBB) is highly selective. Which of the following substances can easily cross the BBB?
A. Bacteria and viruses
B. Glucose, oxygen, and carbon dioxide
C. Most water-soluble drugs
D. Large proteins and peptides
Answer: Option B
Solution (By JKExamLibrary)
The Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) is formed by tight junctions between endothelial cells in brain capillaries, making it highly selective. It allows the free diffusion of small, lipid-soluble molecules and essential gases. Therefore, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and lipid-soluble substances (like alcohol, nicotine, and some anesthetics) easily cross. Glucose, a water-soluble molecule essential for brain energy, crosses via specific carrier-mediated transport (GLUT1 transporters). Large proteins, peptides, most water-soluble drugs, and pathogens like bacteria and viruses are generally blocked from entering the brain parenchyma.
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