Lymphatic vessel

A thin-walled channel that collects lymph from tissues and carries it toward the bloodstream. Its one-way flow supports fluid balance and immune surveillance.

Initial lymphatic: A blind-ended lymphatic capillary that takes up interstitial fluid, proteins, and cells from tissues. Its overlapping endothelial cells open when tissue pressure exceeds pressure inside the vessel.
Lymph: Fluid in the lymphatic system, derived from interstitial fluid and carrying dissolved substances, cells, and sometimes absorbed fats. It is the material transported within lymphatic vessels.
Lymphedema: Persistent tissue swelling caused by impaired lymphatic drainage. Damage or obstruction of lymphatic vessels can prevent fluid from leaving affected tissues.
Lymphatic system: A network of vessels, tissues, and organs that returns tissue fluid to blood and supports immune function. Lymphatic vessels are its transport pathways.
Lymphangiogenesis: The formation of new lymphatic vessels from pre-existing lymphatic endothelium. Researchers study how new vessels form during development, inflammation, and tumor progression.
Lymphatic valve: A flap of endothelial tissue that permits lymph flow in one direction and limits backflow. Valves divide collecting vessels into segments that move lymph toward the heart.
Interstitial fluid: Fluid occupying the spaces between cells in tissues. Initial lymphatics collect excess interstitial fluid and its dissolved contents.
Lymphatic filariasis: A parasitic disease that can damage lymphatic vessels and cause severe chronic swelling. Its parasites obstruct or inflame lymphatic pathways.
Lymph node: A small immune organ that filters lymph and supports interactions among immune cells. Lymphatic vessels carry lymph into and out of these filtering sites.
VEGF-C: A growth factor that promotes lymphatic endothelial development and lymphatic vessel growth through VEGFR-3. Its signaling is a central target for understanding and manipulating lymphatic growth.

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