Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 22, 2025
10:05
Three-Dimensional Imaging of the Vertebral Lymphatic Vasculature and Drainage using iDISCO+ and Light Sheet Fluorescence Microscopy
Published on: May 22, 2020
10.4K
Gravity and lymphodynamics
Thomas Holm-Weber1, Rasmus Eskild Kristensen1, Sheyanth Mohanakumar1
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Physiological Reports
|May 19, 2022
Summary
Gravity significantly impacts lymphatic function. Standing increases lymphatic packet propulsion frequency and pressure within minutes, highlighting the body
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- The lymphatic system is crucial for fluid balance and immune function.
- Understanding healthy lymphatic function is essential for diagnosing pathologies.
- External factors like exercise and temperature affect lymphatic vessels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of gravity on human peripheral lymphatic function.
- To quantify changes in lymphatic propulsion frequency, velocity, and pressure due to gravitational shifts.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Near-Infrared Fluorescence (NIRF) imaging to assess peripheral lymphatic function.
- Measured lymphatic packet propulsion frequency, velocity, and pressure in healthy participants.
- Compared lymphatic parameters in supine versus upright body positions.
Main Results:
- Lymphatic packet propulsion frequency significantly increased upon standing (0.5 to 1.2 contractions/min).
- Lymphatic pressure increased significantly by 9 mmHg while standing.
- Lymph velocity showed variable changes without a distinct pattern during postural change.
Conclusions:
- The lymphatic system rapidly responds to gravitational changes.
- Increased lymphatic propulsion frequency and pressure are key responses to upright posture.
- NIRF imaging is a valuable tool for assessing dynamic lymphatic function.
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