Spatial distribution of blood-brain barrier membrane proteins is controlled by sorting motifs and physiological signals in vivo.

Membrane protein distribution at the blood-brain barrier is influenced by sorting motifs and circadian rhythms, with changes observed in vivo.

• Why it matters: Understanding how BBB membrane proteins are spatially organized is crucial for developing targeted therapies and comprehending BBB function during health and disease.
• What they did: The study developed a method to measure polarized protein sorting in vivo and characterized transporter and receptor distribution, identifying protein-intrinsic motifs and circadian-related changes.
• The result: Findings suggest that membrane protein localization is regulated by intrinsic motifs and circadian signals, providing insights for optimizing BBB-crossing therapeutics and studying BBB dynamics.