Emerging lymphatic imaging technologies for mouse and man

J Clin Invest. 2014 Mar;124(3):905-14. doi: 10.1172/JCI71612. Epub 2014 Mar 3.

Abstract

The lymphatic circulatory system has diverse functions in lipid absorption, fluid homeostasis, and immune surveillance and responds dynamically when presented with infection, inflammation, altered hemodynamics, and cancer. Visualization of these dynamic processes in human disease and animal models of disease is key to understanding the contributory role of the lymphatic circulatory system in disease and to devising effective therapeutic strategies. Longitudinal, non-destructive, and repeated imaging is necessary to expand our understanding of disease progression and regression in basic science and clinical investigations. Herein we summarize recent advances in in vivo lymphatic imaging employing magnetic resonance, computed tomography, lymphoscintigraphy, and emerging optical techniques with respect to their contributory roles in both basic science and clinical research investigations.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Animals, Genetically Modified
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins / biosynthesis
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins / genetics
  • Humans
  • Lymphatic Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Lymphatic Vessels / diagnostic imaging
  • Lymphatic Vessels / pathology*
  • Lymphatic Vessels / physiopathology
  • Lymphography
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Optical Imaging
  • Radionuclide Imaging

Substances

  • Green Fluorescent Proteins