The lymphatic vasculature: recent progress and paradigms.
The field of lymphatic research has been recently invigorated by the identification of genes and mechanisms that control various aspects of lymphatic development. We are beginning to understand how, starting from a subgroup of embryonic venous endothelial cells, the whole lymphatic system forms in a stepwise manner. The generation of genetically engineered mice with defects in different steps of the lymphangiogenic program has provided models that are increasing our understanding of the lymphatic system in health and disease. This knowledge, in turn, should lead to the development of better diagnostic methods and treatments of lymphatic disorders and tumor metastasis.
Oliver
Guillermo
G
Department of Genetics and Tumor Cell Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, USA. guillermo.oliver@stjude.org
Alitalo
Kari
K
D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D008207:Lymphatic Metastasis / Q000503:physiopathology; D008208:Lymphatic System / Q000196:embryology / Q000254:growth & development / Q000502:physiology*; D042601:Lymphatic Vessels / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology*; D008209:Lymphedema / Q000503:physiopathology; D008954:Models, Biological; D042582:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor C / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000502:physiology; D042643:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor D / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000502:physiology
D042582:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor C; D042643:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor D