Scientists Uncover Key Mechanism for Lymphatic Vessel Growth, Offering Hope for Lymphedema

A newly identified cellular mechanism demonstrates potential for treating lymphedema, a painful swelling condition currently without a cure. Lymphedema can be congenital, injury-related, or, most frequently, an outcome of breast cancer treatment. The condition arises from damage to the lymphatic system, which moves fluid throughout the body, resulting in fluid accumulation in tissues.

Breakthrough Discovery in Lymphatic Growth

Researchers, led by Dr. Jonathan Astin from the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, discovered a cellular process that facilitates lymphatic vessel growth. This process was initially observed in zebrafish and subsequently confirmed to operate in human lymphatic cells.

Unlocking the Role of Insulin-Like Growth Factor (IGF)

Specifically, the scientists found that insulin-like growth factor (IGF), a growth-promoting molecule, accelerates the growth of lymphatic vessels in zebrafish. This suggests its potential to repair damaged vessels. Subsequent laboratory work with human cells demonstrated that IGF could also direct human lymphatic vessels to grow.

Significance for Lymphedema Patients

While IGF has been extensively studied, its role in promoting lymphatic vessel growth was not previously recognized.

According to Dr. Astin, this work provides an additional method to induce lymphatic vessel growth, which is particularly relevant for individuals with lymphedema.

In Aotearoa New Zealand, approximately 20 percent of women undergoing lymph node removal as part of breast cancer treatment develop lymphedema, a condition for which no cure currently exists.

Collaborative Research and Methodology

The research was conducted by Dr. Wenxuan Chen in Dr. Astin’s lab, involving collaborations with Dr. Kate Lee, Dr. Justin Rustenhoven, and Professor Stefan Bohlander, as well as a US-based laboratory. Zebrafish were utilized for their simplicity, similarity to humans, and suitability for observing vessel growth due to their rapid development.

Next Steps: Towards a Future Therapy

The next phase of research will involve testing an IGF-based therapy on mice with lymphedema to evaluate its effectiveness. Dr. Astin stated that this research holds potential for a future therapy for lymphedema.