Murine Mesenteric Lymphadenectomy for Selective Disruption of Lymphatic Communication with Region-Specific Gut

Immunosurveillance versus antigen-tolerance is a fine balance within the gut microenvironment, during which the critical role of circulating T cell priming within local lymph nodes is well-known. Subsequent to T cell priming, recent literature has begun to demonstrate a unique, non-redundant role of non-circulating T cells residing in the draining lymph node of an organ. This may be particularly true in the gut, where lymph drainage is known to be highly specific. However, to truly understand the unique impact of these local cells versus systemic functional redundancy, the scientific community requires a well-described procedure to isolate and selectively perturb these nodes. Described here is a survival procedure for safe and well-tolerated murine mesenteric lymphadenectomy at each of four stations along the mesenteric lymph node chain. This procedure is adaptable to allow for selective disruption of lymphatic communication with the distal colon, proximal colon, and/or small intestine. Included are detailed instructions, visual aids, helpful tips for improved success, and troubleshooting for suboptimal survival. Resected lymph nodes are immediately ready for further downstream processing if desired. This technique is best suited for studies requiring selective disruption of lymph drainage from the distal colon, proximal colon, and/or small intestine.