Chronic pericyte exposure to TNFα, IFN-γ, or IL-1β (e.g., during the longer course of hypertension) compromises pericyte function, leading to BBB disruption, which is mediated through the decrease of angiopoietin 1 or platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFRβ) and its signaling (53, 54). The gene discussed is TNF; the disease is Hypertension.