Imaging of the lymphatic system is difficult because its channels and lymph nodes are small and not directly accessible. Currently, two clinical methods, the direct lymphangiography and the lymphoscintigraphy, are used to visualize parts of the human lymphatic system, but have significant limitations. Nano-sized contrast agents have recently been evaluated to be advantageous for visualization o...

It has generally been accepted that the blood vascular system is primary and the lymphatic vascular system secondary. Diseases of the blood vascular system are the leading cause for mortality and morbidity in developed nations. In contrast, lymphedema is seldom life-threatening and can generally be well-managed by combined physiotherapy. During ontogeny, the blood vessels and the heart develop ...

Active lymph transport relies on smooth muscle cell (SMC) contractions around collecting lymphatic vessels, yet regulation of lymphatic vessel wall assembly and lymphatic pumping are poorly understood. Here, we identify Reelin, an extracellular matrix glycoprotein previously implicated in central nervous system development, as an important regulator of lymphatic vascular development. Reelin-def...