VEGF-C/VEGFR-3 Signaling Regulates Chemokine Gradients and Lymphocyte Migration from Tissues to Lymphatics

摘要

BackgroundCirculation of leukocytes via blood, tissue and lymph is integral to adaptive immunity. Afferent lymphatics form CCL21 gradients to guide DC and T cells to lymphatics and then to draining lymph nodes (dLN). VEGF-C and VEGFR-3 are the major lymphatic growth factor and receptor. We hypothesized these molecules also regulate chemokine gradients and lymphatic migration.