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Review
. 2003 Oct 27;163(2):209-13.
doi: 10.1083/jcb.200308082.

Lymphatic endothelium: morphological, molecular and functional properties

Michael S Pepper  1 , Mihaela Skobe
Affiliations
Review

Lymphatic endothelium: morphological, molecular and functional properties

Michael S Pepper et al. J Cell Biol. .

Abstract

The lymphatic microvasculature is uniquely adapted for the continuous removal of interstitial fluid and proteins, and is an important point of entry for leukocytes and tumor cells. The traditional view that lymphatic capillaries are passive participants in these tasks is currently being challenged. This overview highlights recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation and function of lymphatic vessels.

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Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Characteristic structure and function of the lymphatic microvasculature. The lymphatic capillary is uniquely adapted for the uptake of fluid, lipids, macromolecules, and cells from the interstitium. In contrast to the blood capillary, the lymphatic capillary has poorly developed basal lamina (BM) and is devoid of pericytes (P). Lymphatic endothelium is highly attenuated, and cells are connected directly to the interstitial collagen via anchoring filaments (AF). T, T cell; D, dendritic cell; APC, antigen presenting cell.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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