Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 14, 2026

Blocking Lymph Flow by Suturing Afferent Lymphatic Vessels in Mice
Published on: May 14, 2020
Microanatomy of lymphocyte-endothelial interactions at the high endothelial venules of lymph nodes
Kazuo Tohya1, Eiji Umemoto, Masayuki Miyasaka
1Department of Anatomy, Kansai University of Health Sciences, Osaka, Japan. ktohya@kansai.ac.jp
Abstract:
Lymphocyte trafficking into lymph nodes and Peyer's patches is mediated primarily by specifically differentiated venules, called high endothelial venules (HEVs), located in the tissue parenchyma. HEVs have a unique morphology and phenotype, which enables them to interact with circulating lymphocytes efficiently. That is, the HEV endothelial cells have a tall and plump appearance, and constitutively express multiple adhesion molecules and chemokines on their surface. These molecules can interact with cognate receptors on circulating lymphocytes, thereby mediating the stepwise and sequential lymphocyte adhesion and transendothelial migration (TEM) at the HEV endothelial luminal surface. This review summarizes the fine morphological aspects of the unique HEV endothelial cells, with special reference to the spatial distribution of the adhesion molecules and chemokines that regulate lymphocyte migration.
Related Concept Videos
Detailed Structure and Function of Lymph Nodes
From a histological perspective, lymph nodes can be split into two main areas: the superficial cortex and the deep medulla. The outer cortex is populated by dendritic cells, macrophages, and B lymphocytes, which are densely packed into follicles. When these B-lymphocytes are presented...
Lymphatic Vessels and Lymph Transport
This one-way system allows fluids, solutes, and even pathogens to enter but prevents their return to the intercellular spaces.
Overview of the Vascular System
Lymphoid Cells and Tissues
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...
Development of the Lymphatic System
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...
Functions of the Lymphatic and Immune System
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...

