Oxygen-glucose deprivation increases the enzymatic activity and the microvesicle-mediated release of ectonucleotidases in the cells composing the blood-brain barrier

► E-ATPase activity has been evaluated in cells of the blood-brain barrier in vitro. ► In vitro ischemia (OGD) increased NTPDase activity in pericytes, astrocytes and endothelial cells. ► Data have been confirmed in a triple co-culture model of the blood-brain barrier. ► OGD induced shedding of NTPDase-containing vesicles from astrocytes and pericytes. ► The purinergic system might play a key role in the modulation of BBB functions.