Abstract
Purpose:
The cornea provides an ideal tissue for lymphatic research due to its accessible location, transparent nature, and lymphatic-free but inducible features. Using this tissue, we recently reported that the lymphatic pathway mediates corneal transplant rejection and luminal valves are formed inside corneal lymphatics as lymphangiogenesis proceeds. The purpose of this study is to assess the dynamic processes of lymphangiogenesis within live cornea.
Methods:
Our recently developed live imaging system and fluorescent protein labeled Prox-1 mice were used to study lymphatic processes in several pathologic model systems, including suture placement, growth factor implantation, and orthotopic transplantation. Intravital images were collected for longitudinal data analysis.
Results:
Lymphangiogenesis is a dynamic and complex process from the initiation to regression phases. This process includes multiple steps involving vessel sprouting, pruning, maturation, and recession, which occur progressively and within certain time windows.
Conclusions:
Our study offers new insights into in vivo processes of corneal lymphangiogenesis. Further investigation using the intravital technology promises to reveal new mechanisms and therapeutic strategies for lymphatic diseases which occur in many parts of the body.