The present invention relates to nucleic acids and polypeptides encoded thereby, whose expression is modulated in brain microvascular endothelial cells undergoing early dynamic inflammation-induced changes in blood-brain barrier functionality. Such polypeptides are referred to as lipopolysaccharide-sensitive (LPSS) polypeptides herein. These nucleic acids and polypeptides may be useful in methods for controlling blood-brain barrier properties in mammals in need of such biological effects. This includes the diagnosis and treatment of disturbances in the blood-brain/retina barrier, brain (including the eye) disorders, as well as peripheral vascular disorders. Additionally, the invention relates to the use of anti-LPSS polypeptide antibodies or ligands as diagnostic probes, as blood-brain barrier targeting agents or as therapeutic agents as well as the use of ligands or modulators of expression, activation or bioactivity of LPSS polypeptides as diagnostic probes, therapeutic agents or drug delivery enhancers.
