Mechanisms of Connexin-Related Lymphedema.

ABSTRACT:

Rationale

Mutations in GJC2 and GJA1, encoding Cxs (connexins) 47 and 43, respectively, are linked to lymphedema, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Because efficient lymph transport relies on the coordinated contractions of lymphatic muscle cells (LMCs) and their electrical coupling through Cxs, Cx-related lymphedema is proposed to result from dyssynchronous contractions of lymphatic vessels.

Objective

To determine which Cx isoforms in LMCs and lymphatic endothelial cells are required for the entrainment of lymphatic contraction waves and efficient lymph transport.

Methods and results

We developed novel methods to quantify the spatiotemporal entrainment of lymphatic contraction waves and used optogenetic techniques to analyze calcium signaling within and betw

SUBMITTER: Castorena-Gonzalez JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6771293 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature