Extracellular matrix molecules associated with lymphatic vessels in health and disease.

ABSTRACT

Lymphatic vessels (LyVs), responsible for fluid, solute, and immune cell homeostasis in the body, are closely associated with the adjacent extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules whose structural and functional impact on LyVs is currently more appreciated, albeit not entirely elucidated. These molecules, serving as a platform for various connective tissue cell activities and affecting LyV biology should be considered also as an integral part of the lymphatic system. Any alterations and changes in ECM molecules over the course of disease impair the function and structure of the LyV network. Remodeling of LyV cells, which are components of lymphatic vessel walls, also triggers alterations in ECM molecules and interstitial tissue composition. Therefore, in this review we aimed to present the current knowledge on ECM in tissues and particularly on molecules surrounding lymphatics in normal conditions and in disease.