Lymphangiogenesis

Synonyms

Development of new lymphatic vessels; Growth of new lymphatic vessels

Definition

Lymphangiogenesis is the process whereby new lymphatic vessels develop within a tissue. Most commonly, lymphangiogenesis refers to the growth of lymphatic vessels by sprouting of new vessels from preexisting lymphatic vessels. Additionally, lymphangiogenesis refers to the initial formation of the lymphatic system during embryonic development.

Characteristics

Lymphangiogenesis, the growth of new lymphatic vessels, occurs during embryonic development and in tumors and lymph nodes of tumor bearing animals. This key process also occurs in wounds and in inflamed tissues. Lymphangiogenesis in tumors has been linked to the formation of lymph node metastases. Importantly, lymph nodes are the initial or frequent sites of metastasis for many tumors, including human pancreatic, gastric, breast, and prostate carcinomas, melanomasand other tumors and recent studies indicate that lymphangiogenesis likely...