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Lymphatic Vessels and Lymph Transport

Lymphatic 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.

Functions of the Lymphatic and Immune System

Functions 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...

Secondary Lymphoid Organs

Secondary 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...

Detailed Structure and Function of Lymph Nodes

Detailed Structure and Function of Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes are bean-shaped structures that cluster along the lymphatic vessels in the inguinal, axillary, and cervical regions. Each node is divided into compartments by a capsule that extends trabeculae inward.
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...

Blood Supply to the Digestive System

Blood Supply to the Digestive System

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Blood Supply to the Digestive System: The splanchnic circulation involves three main arteries: the celiac artery (also known as the celiac trunk) and the superior and inferior mesenteric...

Inflammatory Bowel Disease II: Ulcerative Colitis

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Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the colon characterized by continuous mucosal inflammation that typically begins in the rectum and extends proximally in a uniform pattern. Its pathogenesis involves a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, immune dysregulation, and environmental influences. These factors converge to impair the colon’s epithelial defenses and promote an exaggerated inflammatory response against luminal contents.Breakdown of the Mucosal BarrierA...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 7, 2026

Blocking Lymph Flow by Suturing Afferent Lymphatic Vessels in Mice

Blocking Lymph Flow by Suturing Afferent Lymphatic Vessels in Mice

Published on: May 14, 2020

Lymphatic pump function in the inflamed gut.

Pierre-Yves Von Der Weid¹, Sonia Rehal

¹Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Inflammation Research Network and Smooth Muscle Research Group, Snyder Institute of Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. vonderwe@ucalgary.ca

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences

|October 22, 2010

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Inflammation impairs lymphatic pumping in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Prostanoids like prostaglandin E2 inhibit lymphatic function, potentially causing IBD-related edema and immune dysfunction.

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Isolation of Human Lymphatic Endothelial Cells by Multi-parameter Fluorescence-activated Cell Sorting

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Published on: May 1, 2015

Area of Science:

Physiology
Immunology
Gastroenterology

Background:

Lymphatic circulation's role in fluid and particle removal is known.
Its compromise during inflammation, especially in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is poorly understood.

Purpose of the Study:

Investigate lymphatic pumping mechanisms and their modulation during inflammation.
Examine lymphatic vessel dysfunction in an animal model of IBD.

Main Methods:

Studied mesenteric lymphatic contractile activity in an animal model of intestinal inflammation.
Assessed the role of prostanoids, prostaglandin E2, and prostacyclin in lymphatic pumping inhibition.

Main Results:

Demonstrated impaired mesenteric lymphatic contractile activity in the IBD model.
Identified prostanoids as key mediators inhibiting lymphatic pumping.

Conclusions:

Inflammation-induced inhibition of mesenteric lymphatic pumping may contribute to IBD pathologies.
Dysfunctional lymphatic vessels in IBD can lead to edema, impaired immunity, and granuloma formation.