Lung Lymphatics in Edema, Inflammation, and Thrombosis

Abstract

The lung lymphatics are formed from lymphatic endothelial cells and play a pivotal role in lung fluid homeostasis and immune trafficking. Though blood vascular function in the lung has long been an area of active investigation, many aspects of lung lymphatic vascular function have only recently been uncovered. In this review, we will discuss our current knowledge of lung lymphatic function and how these vessels differ from lung blood vasculature in their architecture, function, and response to injury in 3 domains: edema, inflammation, and thrombosis. We will review the rich historical anatomic literature that described the lung lymphatics in great detail and elucidated foundational discoveries that continue to shape our current understanding of the lung lymphatics, even in the molecular era. We conclude by highlighting key questions for the field of lung lymphatic biology.