Lymphatics in human lymphatic filariasis: in vitro models of parasite-induced lymphatic remodeling

Lymphat Res Biol. 2009 Dec;7(4):215-9. doi: 10.1089/lrb.2009.0022.

Abstract

Lymphatic filariasis characterized by the dysfunction of the lymphatics can lead to severe (and often) irreversible lymphedema and elephantiasis. Decades of research in the field shows that the establishment of the adult parasites in the lymphatics triggers a cascade of events that ultimately results in tissue scarring and fibrosis. In this minireview, we focus on the studies addressing the mechanisms underlying the parasite-induced lymphatic dilatation that suggests parasite-induced lymphatic remodeling and lymphangiogenesis may be the prelude towards developing chronic and irreversible filarial pathology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Models, Animal*
  • Elephantiasis, Filarial / immunology
  • Elephantiasis, Filarial / parasitology*
  • Elephantiasis, Filarial / pathology
  • Humans
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Lymphatic System / physiology*