Lymphatic Biomechanics

Effect of stretch on lymphatic muscle cells

Using lymphatic muscle cells collected from a sheep model of lymphatic dysfunction, we can determine how the phenotypic state of LMCs influence their response to cyclic loading. We demonstrated that LMCs adapt to local damage and inflammation by becoming more active and mobile. LMCs derived from a sheep model of lymphatic dysfunction were seeded onto a cyclic straining device. Proteomic analysis revealed that stretching LMCs elevate molecular pathways associated with oxidative phosphorylation, IGF-1 signaling, and mitochondrial activity.

Contact: Josh Hooks