Gene expression profile of lymphatic endothelial cells

The lymphatic system was first described at around the same time as the blood circulation centuries ago, but the biological function elucidation of LECs (lymphatic endothelial cells) is far less than that of BVECs (blood vascular endothelial cells). Since the discovery of molecular markers for LECs and exploration of lymphatic role in tumour metastasis, more attention has been given to basic lymphatic research. Approx. 150 known genes were found to be expressed at the mRNA and protein levels by LECs. These molecules play an important role in lymphangiogenesis, signalling, tumour metastasis, immune function and fluid transport. This review provides a brief outline of gene expression profile of LECs and the molecular biological function, which will give the reader a better understanding about the mechanics of lymphatic function and some pathologies related to the lymphatic system such as lymphoedema, and facilitate advanced scientific research into lymphatic biology.