Inflammatory status of transmigrating primary rat monocytes in a novel perfusion model simulating blood flow

► This in vitro perfusion model is useful for culturing monocytes under constant flow. ► The perfusion culturing method does not elicit enhanced cell death or activation. ► Monocyte cell morphology is altered by cultivation under constant flow. ► Addition of an in vitro BBB or cortical brain slices results in enhanced inflammation. ► Addition of anti-inflammatory drugs counteracts cell morphological changes.