Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 15, 2026
07:10
In vivo Imaging Method to Distinguish Acute and Chronic Inflammation
Published on: August 16, 2013
20.8K
Acute small intestinal inflammation results in persistent lymphatic alterations
Sonia Rehal1, Matthew Stephens1, Simon Roizes1
1Inflammation Research Network and Smooth Muscle Research Group, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary , Calgary, Alberta , Canada.
Summary
Acute intestinal injury causes lasting lymphatic system changes, potentially increasing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) recurrence risk. These alterations affect dendritic cell function and movement, impacting gut health.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and Immunology
- Lymphatic Biology
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Research
Background:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) pathophysiology is complex, with limited therapeutic options.
- Alterations in the intestinal lymphatic system are linked to IBD development and recurrence.
- Previous acute intestinal injury increases the risk of IBD occurrence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the lymphatic system in IBD inflammation recurrence.
- To evaluate morphological and functional changes in mouse intestinal lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes during acute ileitis.
- To determine the consequences of these changes on dendritic cell (DC) trafficking.
Main Methods:
- Induction of acute ileitis in mice using dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) for 7 days.
- Monitoring of lymphatic vessel morphology and function during a 14-day recovery period.
- Assessment of DC populations and trafficking between mucosal and lymphoid tissues.
Main Results:
- DSS treatment caused significant lymphatic abnormalities, including lymphangiectasia, lymphangiogenesis, and increased lymphatic leakage.
- Lymphangiogenesis and lymphadenopathy persisted after inflammation resolution.
- Altered DC numbers and function were observed in mucosal and lymphatic tissues during and after DSS treatment.
Conclusions:
- Acute intestinal injury induces persistent structural and functional changes in the mesenteric lymphatic system.
- These lymphatic alterations may compromise DC function and movement, potentially increasing susceptibility to IBD recurrence.
- Understanding mesenteric and intestinal lymphatic function offers potential for new IBD therapeutic strategies.
Related Concept Videos
01:38Inflammation
62.5K
Overview
62.5K
01:23Anatomy of the Intestines
88.1K
Although digestion of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids may begin in the stomach, it is completed in the intestine. The absorption of nutrients, water, and electrolytes from food and drink also occurs in the intestine. The intestines can be divided into two structurally distinct organs—the small and large intestines.
Small Intestines
The small intestine is an ~7 meter-long tube with an inner diameter of just 2.5 cm. Since most nutrients are absorbed here, the inner lining of the...
Small Intestines
The small intestine is an ~7 meter-long tube with an inner diameter of just 2.5 cm. Since most nutrients are absorbed here, the inner lining of the...
88.1K
01:15Development of the Lymphatic System
2.2K
The development of lymphatic tissues and vessels in embryonic life begins around the fifth week. These structures originate from the mesoderm layer, with lymph sacs emerging from developing veins.
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...
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...
2.2K
01:30Alterations in Respiration II
1.9K
There are numerous types of normal and abnormal respiration. Based on ventilatory movements, breathing patterns are classified as regular, deep, or shallow. Examples include Biot's breathing, Cheyne-Stokes respiration, Kussmaul's breathing, hyperventilation, and hypoventilation. Each pattern is clinically significant and aids in evaluating patients.
In Biot's breathing, the respiratory rate and depth are irregular, alternating between periods of deep gasping and apnea. Common causes...
In Biot's breathing, the respiratory rate and depth are irregular, alternating between periods of deep gasping and apnea. Common causes...
1.9K
01:06Altered States of Awareness
1.2K
Altered states of consciousness represent significant deviations from one's normal mental state. These deviations can range from subtle changes in awareness to profound transformations in perception, thought processes, and sensory experiences. Altered states of consciousness can be triggered by various factors, including drug use, meditation, hypnosis, illness, or even intense fatigue.
The ingestion of substances like stimulants or hallucinogens leads to chemical alterations in the brain...
The ingestion of substances like stimulants or hallucinogens leads to chemical alterations in the brain...
1.2K
01:28Functions of the Lymphatic and Immune System
7.0K
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...
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...
7.0K