The human thoracic duct is functionally innervated by adrenergic nerves.
Niklas Telinius1, Ulrik Baandrup, Jüri Rumessen
1Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark;
American Journal of Physiology. Heart and Circulatory Physiology
|November 12, 2013
Summary
Human lymphatic vessels, specifically the thoracic duct (TD), are functionally innervated by nerves. This innervation is primarily adrenergic, with a smaller cholinergic component, impacting TD contractility.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Vascular Biology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Animal lymphatic vessels are known to be innervated.
- Human lymphatic vessels show innervation morphologically, but functional evidence is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the functional innervation of the human thoracic duct (TD).
- To determine the neurotransmitter systems involved in TD contractility.
Main Methods:
- Isometric force measurements and electrical field stimulation (EFS) on human TDs.
- Pharmacological blockade with atropine and phentolamine.
- Assessment of neurotransmitter and sympathomimetic agent effects.
Main Results:
- EFS induced nerve-mediated contractions in human TDs.
- Contractions were significantly reduced by α-adrenoceptor and muscarinic receptor blockers.
- Tyramine induced contractions, confirming sympathetic nerve presence.
- Norepinephrine application yielded consistent contractile responses.
Conclusions:
- The human thoracic duct is functionally innervated.
- Both adrenergic and cholinergic components are present, with adrenergic signaling being dominant.
- This functional innervation plays a role in regulating TD contractility.
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