Organ-specific lymphatic vasculature: From development to pathophysiology.

Area of Science:

• Vascular biology
• Cell biology
• Physiology

Background:

• Lymphatic vessels were traditionally viewed as passive conduits.
• Recent research reveals their active roles in physiological and pathophysiological processes.
• Lymphatic vessels exhibit plasticity and heterogeneity, adapting to specific tissue microenvironments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent findings on organotypic differentiation of lymphatic endothelial cells.
• To summarize distinct physiological and pathophysiological functions across various organs.
• To highlight advances in understanding lymphatic vessel heterogeneity and specialization.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent discoveries in lymphatic vasculature.
• Analysis of organ-specific lymphatic endothelial cell differentiation.
• Synthesis of data on functional and molecular specialization in different tissues.

Main Results:

• Lymphatic vessels are active, tissue-specific regulators of the microenvironment.
• Organ-specific lymphatic endothelial cell differentiation contributes to diverse functions.
• Examples include Schlemm's canal, intestinal fat uptake, and brain/eye lymphatics.

Conclusions:

• Lymphatic vasculature is highly heterogeneous and functionally specialized by organ.
• Understanding these specialized lymphatic systems is crucial for physiology and pathology.
• Future research should explore the implications of lymphatic plasticity and diverse origins.