Intestinal Lymph Collection via Cannulation of the Mesenteric Lymphatic Duct in Mice

We have optimized a technique for cannulation of mesenteric lymph duct (MLD) in mice. Mice have low rates of intestinal lymph production; the MLDs are smaller and associated with fragile vasculature. Previous protocols for lymph collection based on the open lymph fistula model were associated with low success rates in mice. Bariatric surgery procedures worsen success rates due to postoperative adhesions and GI rearrangement. We have used this procedure to collect mesenteric lymph from mice undergoing bile diversion from gall bladder to ileum (GB-IL).We hypothesize that peptide YY (PYY) levels in mesenteric lymph will increase following nutrient delivery in mice undergoing bile diversion from gall bladder to ileum (GB-IL).We observe that cannulation of the MLD using a needled-catheter maintains lymph vessel integrity, prevents excessive lymph leakage, and is less traumatic, leading to high success rates (>95%). PYY levels in mesenteric lymph after GB-IL were significantly higher post nutrient infusion. The procedure takes approximately 20 min; small rodent surgical experience and practice are required for success.Intestinal lymph can be collected from mice, including those undergoing bariatric surgical procedures with high success rates by cannulation of the mesenteric lymph duct.