Biological functions of lymphatic vessels

Abstract

Roles of organ-specific lymphatic vessels Lymphatic vessels are spread throughout the human body and have critical functions in mammalian physiology. Petrova et al. review emerging roles of the lymphatic vasculature in organ function and pathology and provide perspectives beyond the traditional view of lymphatic vessels in the maintenance of fluid homeostasis. The authors highlight new insights into lymphatic vessel function and lymphatic endothelial cell biology as it relates to intestinal lacteals, lymph nodes, central nervous system meninges, and cancer. Recent steps toward therapeutic opportunities that could alter lymphatic function or growth are also discussed. Science , this issue p. eaax4063