Lymphangiogenesis: From the pig embryos to cancer

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2008

Authors

Longatto Filho, A (Author) Other; Duarte, M (Author) Other; Fernando Schmitt (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Jornal Brasileiro de Patologia e Medicina Laboratorial

Vol. 44

Pages: 215-220

ISSN: 1676-2444

Publisher: Sociedade Brasileira de Patologia Clinica

Indexing

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-007-NQF

DOI: 10.1590/s1676-24442008000300010

Abstract (EN): The discovery and the comprehension of lymphatic vessels suffered several historical delays and setbacks. The inherent anatomical problems slowed down the precise identification of the lymphatic system during the development of medical science. Gasparo Aselli, an Italian surgeon and anatomist, was the first to describe the lymphatic vessels in 1627 (De Lacteibus sive Lacteis Venis). However, most original descriptions that report the morphology of the lymphatic system in different organisms were done during the 19th and the 20th centuries. The recent identification of specific lymphatic vasculature molecular markers allows a more accurate identification and characterization of the lymphatic system evolution in different organs, as well as its role in different pathological conditions, including cancer. This study summarizes the current understanding of lymphangiogenesis in tumour progression, as well as it presents a review of the promising data regarding the prognostic value of lymphatic density and the use of therapeutic lymphangiogenic molecules.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific