An ad hoc committee will plan a one-day public workshop that will bring together key stakeholders from academia, government, the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sector, and disease-focused organizations to explore current development of novel therapeutics for nervous system disorders that can be delivered across the blood-brain barrier. Invited presentations and discussions will be designed to:

• Provide an overview of current knowledge on the role of the blood-brain barrier as a complex and dynamic interface that protects the central nervous system from toxins and pathogens and regulates transport of substances from the blood.
• Discuss blood-brain barrier passive and active mechanisms that challenge development and delivery of effective therapeutic interventions to central nervous system targets.
• Highlight innovative approaches for delivery of therapeutics across the blood-brain barrier harnessing endogenous mechanisms, nanoparticles, and other technologies.
• Explore currently-available data, barriers, and opportunities related to developing novel treatments that cross the blood-brain barrier--from the preclinical to clinical phase--with an emphasis on risks, levers, and potential collaborative efforts among sectors.

The committee will develop the agenda for the workshop, select and invite speakers and discussants, and moderate the discussions. A proceedings of the presentations and discussions at the workshop will be prepared by a designated rapporteur in accordance with institutional guidelines.