Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026
09:10
Generation of Lymph Node-fat Pad Chimeras for the Study of Lymph Node Stromal Cell Origin
Published on: December 16, 2013
Vascularisation in adipose depots surrounding immune-stimulated lymph nodes
H A Macqueen1, V Waights, C M Pond
1Department of Biology, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK. h.a.macqueen@open.ac.uk
Journal of Anatomy
|May 5, 1999
Summary
Simulated immune challenges alter the vascularization of surrounding adipose tissue. Perinodal adipose tissue shows dynamic vascular changes, supporting its role in peripheral immune responses.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Adipose Tissue Biology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Popliteal lymph nodes are critical sites for immune responses.
- Adipose tissue surrounding lymph nodes may play a role in immune function.
- Understanding the dynamics of perinodal adipose tissue vascularization is crucial for comprehending immune system interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the changes in vascularization of adipose depots surrounding a popliteal lymph node after a simulated immune challenge.
- To compare the vascular response in stimulated versus unstimulated lymph node-associated adipose tissue.
Main Methods:
- Utilized image analysis to quantify the percentage of vessels within adipose depots.
- Administered a simulated immune challenge to one popliteal lymph node and its surrounding adipose depot.
- Monitored vascularization changes over a period of 1 month post-stimulus.
Main Results:
- Vascularization of stimulated adipose depots decreased initially, then increased biphasically over 2-3 weeks, returning to baseline by 1 month.
- Unstimulated adipose depots exhibited a similar pattern but with a 3-6 day delay in peak vascularization.
- Both stimulated and unstimulated perinodal adipose tissues demonstrated dynamic vascular remodeling in response to immune signaling.
Conclusions:
- Perinodal adipose tissue undergoes significant, dynamic vascular changes following immune stimulation.
- The vascular response in adipose tissue surrounding lymph nodes supports its involvement in peripheral immune responses.
- Adipose tissue acts as a dynamic component of the immune microenvironment, modulating vascularity in response to immune challenges.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Introduction to Lymphatic and Immune System
Immunity is a crucial biological concept about our body's inherent capacity to prevent infections and diseases. A complex network of cells and tissues collectively known as the immune system facilitates this natural defense mechanism. The immune system plays an integral role in maintaining our health and well-being, shielding us from potential health threats.
The immune responses can be categorized into two types: innate and adaptive. Innate immunity comprises nonspecific defenses we are born...
The immune responses can be categorized into two types: innate and adaptive. Innate immunity comprises nonspecific defenses we are born...
01:28Functions of the Lymphatic and Immune System
The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in bolstering our immune system. It consists of a network of lymphoid organs, lymph, and lymphatic vessels that provide structural and functional support in safeguarding the body against pathogens such as viruses and bacteria.
The primary lymphoid organs, including the bone marrow and the thymus, serve as the maturation sites for lymphocytes. Secondary lymphoid organs, like the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, activate these lymphocytes and serve as...
The primary lymphoid organs, including the bone marrow and the thymus, serve as the maturation sites for lymphocytes. Secondary lymphoid organs, like the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, activate these lymphocytes and serve as...
01:16Lymphatic Vessels and Lymph Transport
Lymphatic vessels, known as lymphatics, are crucial in transporting lymph from peripheral tissues to our venous system. This process begins with lymph entering through tiny capillaries that branch through tissues. These capillaries have unique features such as larger diameters, thinner walls, and a distinctive one-way valve system formed by overlapping endothelial cells.
This one-way system allows fluids, solutes, and even pathogens to enter but prevents their return to the intercellular spaces.
This one-way system allows fluids, solutes, and even pathogens to enter but prevents their return to the intercellular spaces.
01:18Lymphoid Cells and Tissues
Lymphoid cells and tissues are integral to the immune system, which is crucial in maintaining our body's defense against harmful pathogens. They form the building blocks of lymphoid organs, which include the spleen, thymus, and lymph nodes.
Lymphoid cells consist of various types of immune system cells. These include B and T lymphocytes, which are responsible for producing antibodies and killing infected cells, respectively. Dendritic cells act as messengers between the innate and adaptive...
Lymphoid cells consist of various types of immune system cells. These include B and T lymphocytes, which are responsible for producing antibodies and killing infected cells, respectively. Dendritic cells act as messengers between the innate and adaptive...
01:15Secondary Lymphoid Organs
Secondary organs, including lymph nodes, the spleen, and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT), work harmoniously to protect us from disease and infection.
The spleen is a vital organ in the lymphatic system, nestled in the upper left side of the abdomen. It is composed of two primary regions: the red pulp and the white pulp, each having distinct functions. The red pulp performs a significant role in blood filtration. It efficiently purges the blood of old or damaged red blood cells and...
The spleen is a vital organ in the lymphatic system, nestled in the upper left side of the abdomen. It is composed of two primary regions: the red pulp and the white pulp, each having distinct functions. The red pulp performs a significant role in blood filtration. It efficiently purges the blood of old or damaged red blood cells and...
01:15Development of the Lymphatic System
The development of lymphatic tissues and vessels in embryonic life begins around the fifth week. These structures originate from the mesoderm layer, with lymph sacs emerging from developing veins.
The first lymph sacs to form are the paired jugular lymph sacs located at the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins. From these sacs, lymphatic capillary plexuses extend to the thorax, upper limbs, neck, and head, eventually forming lymphatic vessels. Each jugular lymph sac maintains a...
The first lymph sacs to form are the paired jugular lymph sacs located at the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins. From these sacs, lymphatic capillary plexuses extend to the thorax, upper limbs, neck, and head, eventually forming lymphatic vessels. Each jugular lymph sac maintains a...