Animal models for the molecular and mechanistic study of lymphatic biology and disease.
The development of animal model systems for the study of the lymphatic system has resulted in an explosion of information regarding the mechanisms governing lymphatic development and the diseases associated with lymphatic dysfunction. Animal studies have led to a new molecular model of embryonic lymphatic vascular development, and have provided insight into the pathophysiology of both inherited and acquired lymphatic insufficiency. It has become apparent, however, that the importance of the lymphatic system to human disease extends, beyond its role in lymphedema, to many other diverse pathologic processes, including, very notably, inflammation and tumor lymphangiogenesis. Here, we have undertaken a systematic review of the models as they relate to molecular and functional characterization of the development, maturation, genetics, heritable and acquired diseases, and neoplastic implications of the lymphatic system. The translation of these advances into therapies for human diseases associated with lymphatic dysfunction will require the continued study of the lymphatic system through robust animal disease models that simulate their human counterparts.
Stanford Center for Lymphatic and Venous Disorders, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, 300 Pasteur Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
William S
WS
Shin
Stanley G
SG
Rockson
D000818:Animals; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D006801:Humans; D008198:Lymph Nodes / Q000473:pathology; D008206:Lymphatic Diseases / Q000473:pathology*; D008208:Lymphatic System / Q000473:pathology*; D042601:Lymphatic Vessels / Q000473:pathology*; D042582:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor C / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism
D042582:Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor C