Embedded into the wall of collecting lymphatic vessels and trunks, the lymphatic smooth
muscles are cardinal to the functions of the lymphatic system. Their intrinsic contractile property…

Objective: To evaluate lymphatic contractile activity in different regions of the lymphatic
system in a single animal model (the rat thoracic duct, mesenteric, cervical, and femoral …

… molecular patterns (like LPS), in DCs, override regulation by LECs, because in the
presence of a pathogen, the full immunogenic potential is required and down-regulation of DC …

The lymphatic system has important roles in body fluid regulation, macromolecular homeostasis,
lipid absorption, and immune function. To accomplish these roles, lymphatics must …

There are only a few reports of the influence of imposed flow on an active lymph pump under
conditions of controlled intraluminal pressure. Thus, the mechanisms are not clearly defined…

The contractile properties of the mesenteric collecting lymphatics of the rat were analyzed
under control conditions and during periods of enhanced lymph formation using in vivo …

Objective: To measure lymphocyte velocity, lymphatic contraction, and shear stress in phasically
contracting lymphatics in situ. Methods: A high-speed video system was used to capture …

Here we show that endothelial cells (EC) require matrix type 1-metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP)
for the formation of lumens and tube networks in 3-dimensional (3D) collagen matrices. A …

The concept of inflammation-induced lymphangiogenesis (ie, formation of new lymphatic
vessels) has long been recognized, but the molecular mechanisms remained largely unknown. …

… DC Zawieja is a recipient of National Research Service Award HL-07688. Address for reprint
requests: DC Zawieja, Dept. of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M Univ., College Station, TX …