The role of magnesium in edema and blood brain barrier disruption, Istanbul University 2011

“Conclusion
It is clear from the discussion above that magnesium plays a variety of essential roles within the cell by modulating the activity of more than 325 enzymes as a cofactor. These enzymes are important for the survival of various cell types including endothelial cells of the BBB. Meanwhile, magnesium deficiency leads to or worsens a variety of central nervous system pathologies by increasing inflammatory cytokines and reactive oxygen species and disturbing the activity of transporters in neurons, astrocytes, pericytes and capillary endothelial cells, which together constitute the neurovascular unit of the brain.
Besides, the alterations in the Mg2+ concentration in intra- and extracellular fluids are associated with development or aggravation of BBB disruption and brain edema in various clinical disorders and experimental settings. On the other hand, magnesium supplementation can play multiple roles in protecting BBB integrity and improving brain edema. However, owing to the availability of limited knowledge, it is hard to come to a full understanding of the highly specific actions of magnesium on BBB integrity and brain edema in the course of a variety of pathophysiologies involving the BBB. For this reason, research in this field should continue in order to provide a thorough explanation of the impact of magnesium on the BBB, brain edema and related pathologies.”
Learn more/full paper: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507252/