Enzyme-histochemical identification of the human lymphatic capillary by adenylate cyclase

This investigation was performed in order to establish a new histochemical method for the identification of lymphatic capillaries. The microvasculature in specimens from human foreskin was examined for adenylate cyclase and alkaline phosphatase activity by light and electron microscopy. Lymphatic capillaries showed positive adenylate cyclase reactivity and negative alkaline phosphatase reactivity whereas the blood capillaries showed a positive reaction for alkaline phosphatase and a negative one for adenylate cyclase. The presence of adenylate cyclase activity in the endothelium of the lymphatic capillary may relate to microvascular function including the transcapillary exchange of water and solutes.