Barcelona Blood-Brain Barrier Conference – B4 2026

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) separates the blood circulation from the brain tissue. However, despite its name, the BBB is far from a static, impenetrable barrier. Instead, this highly dynamic structure responds to and regulates the complex requirements of brain function. To advance our knowledge of how the BBB impacts health and disease, the 3rd edition of the Barcelona Blood-Brain Barrier Conference will bring together scientists from across the globe to discuss emerging topics in BBB physiology, pathology and translational research. This interdisciplinary event will incorporate neuroscience, vascular biology, protein engineering, bioengineering, and nanomedicine to provide a unique platform to foster collaboration and address challenges shaping the future of this field.

In the name of the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC) and the Institut Químic de Sarrià (IQS), we look forward to welcoming you to the vibrant and historic city of Barcelona to take part in these lively discussions, make lasting connections, and push the boundaries of the field forward.

TOPICS:

Physiology of the BBB

Pericyte and Glial Control of BBB Function

Tight-junction Biology

Endothelial Membrane Dynamics

Mechanobiology at the BBB

Glycocalyx Contributions

Neurovascular Coupling Mechanisms

Circadian Control of BBB Function

Sex Differences at the BBB

The BBB in Disease

BBB Dysfunction in Aging and Cognitive Decline

Neurodegeneration Mechanisms Driven by BBB Dysfunction

The BBB in Brain Cancers: Corrupting the Vasculature

The BBB in Stroke: Novel Concepts and Treatment Strategies

Pathological Angiogenesis and BBB Dysfunction

Immune-BBB crosstalk: Neuroinflammation and Infection

The BBB in Epilepsy and Traumatic Brain Injury

The Role of the BBB in Neuropsychiatric Disorders

Clinical Aspects

Therapeutic Delivery Across the BBB

Nanoparticles for therapeutic brain delivery

Novel brain-targeting strategies

Transcytosis dynamics across the BBB

Advances in Brain Shuttles for BioTherapeutics

Gene Delivery to the BBB and the Brain Parenchyma

Strategies to Transiently Open the BBB

Modelling, Imaging and Omics of the BBB

Advances in Imaging Techniques to Study BBB Dynamics

Advanced Bioengineering Models of the BBB

Omics and Computational Modeling of the BBB

Stem-cells and Tissue-engineering to Model BBB Function