Cellular and molecular mediators of lymphangiogenesis in inflammatory bowel disease

Recent studies reporting the intricate crosstalk between cellular and molecular mediators and the lymphatic endothelium in the development of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) suggest altered inflammatory cell drainage and lymphatic vasculature, implicating the lymphatic system as a player in the occurrence, development, and recurrence of intestinal diseases. This article aims to review recent data on the modulatory functions of cellular and molecular components of the IBD microenvironment on the lymphatic system, particularly lymphangiogenesis. It serves as a promising therapeutic target for IBD management and treatment. The interaction with gut microbiota is also explored.

Evidence shows that cells of the innate and adaptive immune system and certain non-immune cells participate in the complex processes of inflammatory-induced lymphangiogenesis through the secretion of a wide spectrum of molecular factors, which vary greatly among the various cells. Lymphangiogenesis enhances lymphatic fluid drainage, hence reduced infiltration of immunomodulatory cells and associated-inflammatory cytokines. Interestingly, some of the cellular mediators, including mast cells, neutrophils, basophils, monocytes, and lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs), are a source of lymphangiogenic molecules, and a target as they express specific receptors for lymphangiogenic factors.

The effective target of lymphangiogenesis is expected to provide novel therapeutic interventions for intestinal inflammatory conditions, including IBD, through both immune and non-immune cells and based on cellular and molecular mechanisms of lymphangiogenesis that facilitate inflammation resolution.