The lymphatic vascular system in liver diseases: its role in ascites formation.
- Author:
Chuhan CHUNG
1
;
Yasuko IWAKIRI
Author Information
- Publication Type:Review ; Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural ; Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
- Keywords: Lymphangiogenesis; Ascites; Portal hypertension; Nitric oxide
- MeSH: Ascites/*etiology; Humans; Hypertension, Portal/complications/pathology; Liver Cirrhosis/complications/pathology; Liver Diseases/complications/*pathology; Liver Neoplasms/complications/pathology; Lymphangiogenesis; Lymphatic Vessels/metabolism/physiopathology
- From:Clinical and Molecular Hepatology 2013;19(2):99-104
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
- Abstract: The lymphatic system is part of the circulatory system and plays a key role in normal vascular function. Its failure plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of various diseases including liver diseases. Lymphangiogenesis (the growth of lymphatic vessels) and changes in the properties of lymphatic vessels are associated with pathogenesis of tumor metastases, ascites formation, liver fibrosis/cirrhosis and portal hypertension. Despite its significant role in liver diseases and its importance as a potential therapeutic target for those diseases, the lymphatic vascular system of the liver is poorly understood. Therefore, how the lymphatic vascular system in general and lymphangiogenesis in particular are mechanistically related to the pathogenesis and maintenance of liver diseases are largely unknown. This article summarizes: 1) the lymphatic vascular system; 2) its role in liver tumors, liver fibrosis/cirrhosis and portal hypertension; and 3) its role in ascites formation.
