The blood brain barrier (BBB) is the main structure of the central nervous system that regulates the entry and exit of molecules and cells. BBB can protect brain tissues from toxins, promote the material transport, and maintain the ion balance. Ischemic stroke (IS) is characterized by high incidence rate, high recurrence rate, and high mortality and disability rate. Based on the characteristics of BBB structure and function damaged and permeability increased in the core area of infarction, the imaging methods for non-invasive assessment of BBB structure and function include: magnetic resonance dynamic contrast enhanced imaging (DCE-MRI), CT perfusion imaging (CTP), magnetic resonance arterial spin labeling (ASL) sequence, etc. The ASL is non-invasive, safe, and convenience, and has attracted extensive clinical attention. This article reviews the clinical application of non-invasive imaging techniques, especially ASL, in BBB assessment of ischemic cerebrovascular disease.

Blood brain barrier; Ischemic stroke; Arterial spin labeling; Hemorrhagic transformation; Progress