Assessing functional status of cardiac lymphatics: From macroscopic imaging to molecular profiling

Abstract

Here we describe various techniques for visualization of the lymphatic vasculature, particularly in the heart. Addressing macro-, microscopic, and molecular levels of lymphatic organization, we give examples of how to explore the roles of specific antigens/markers expressed in lymphatic vessels and their extracellular matrix as structural and functional elements involved in various biological functions of lymphatics. Some obstacles and technical challenges related to lymphatic visualization are also discussed.

Keywords: Cardiac lymphatics; Extracellular matrix; Intercellular junctions; Lymphatic vessel markers; Microscopic imaging; Myocardium.