Mechanics of Lymphatic Pumping and Lymphatic Function

The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining tissue fluid balance, immune surveillance, and the transport of lipids and macromolecules. Lymph is absorbed by initial lymphatics and then driven through lymph nodes and to the blood circulation by the contraction of collecting lymphatic vessels. Intraluminal valves in collecting lymphatic vessels ensure the unidirectional flow of lymph centrally. The lymphatic muscle cells that invest in collecting lymphatic vessels impart energy to propel lymph against hydrostatic pressure gradients and gravity. A variety of mechanical and biochemical stimuli modulate the contractile activity of lymphatic vessels. This review focuses on the recent advances in our understanding of the mechanisms involved in regulating and collecting lymphatic vessel pumping in normal tissues and the association between lymphatic pumping, infection, inflammatory disease states, and lymphedema.