Developmental and pathological lymphangiogenesis: from models to human disease

[lymphedemapeople]

Developmental and pathological lymphangiogenesis: from models to human
disease

Histochem Cell Biol. 2008 Oct 23

Maby-El Hajjami H, Petrova TV.
Division of Experimental Oncology, Centre Pluridisciplinaire
d'Oncologie, CHUV and University of Lausanne, Ch. des Boveresses 155,
1066, Epalinges, Switzerland.

The lymphatic vascular system, the body's second vascular system
present in vertebrates, has emerged in recent years as a crucial
player in normal and pathological processes. It participates in the
maintenance of normal tissue fluid balance, the immune functions of
cellular and antigen trafficking and absorption of fatty acids and
lipid-soluble vitamins in the gut. Recent scientific discoveries have
highlighted the role of lymphatic system in a number of pathologic
conditions, including lymphedema, inflammatory diseases, and tumor
metastasis. Development of genetically modified animal models,
identification of lymphatic endothelial specific markers and
regulators coupled with technological advances such as high-resolution
imaging and genome-wide approaches have been instrumental in
understanding the major steps controling growth and remodeling of
lymphatic vessels. This review highlights the recent insights and
developments in the field of lymphatic vascular biology.

http://www.springerlink.com/content/r26qv84245q16036/