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Kawakami Z, Matsubara Y, Ogura K, Imamura S, Iizuka S, Zhang N, Matsumoto C, Fujitsuka N. Effect of Goreisan, a Traditional Japanese Medicine, on Rat Hindlimb Lymphedema. Biol Pharm Bull 2024; 47:1179-1188. [PMID: 38880626 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b23-00829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Secondary lymphedema occurs after cancer surgery involving lymph node dissection owing to the lymphatic system dysfunction. However, the pathophysiology of lymphedema and the molecular pathways involved remain unknown. This study aimed to develop a rat hindlimb lymphedema model and investigate the mechanisms that drive pathophysiology and the effects of the traditional Japanese medicine goreisan on lymphedema. The rat lymphedema model was induced by combination surgeries of popliteal lymph node dissection, skin cautery incision, and fascial ablation coagulation in the right hindlimb using male Wistar rats. The foot volume was significantly increased, and recovery was delayed by combination surgeries. Dermal thickness and dilated lymphatic vessels of the hindlimb were observed on postoperative day 2. The number of infiltrating leukocytes (CD45+ cells), including CD4+ T-cells, increased in the lymphedema group compared with that in the sham group. The relative mRNA expression and protein levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), CC chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), and Fms-related receptor tyrosine kinase 4 (FLT4) were significantly higher in the lymphedema group than in the sham group. Foot volume was decreased by goreisan, furosemide, and prednisolone treatments. Goreisan diminished the increase in CD4+ T-cells, and the same trend was observed for CCL2 and FLT4 expression. In conclusion, the rat hindlimb lymphedema model in this study exhibited increased foot volume, skin-infiltrating cells, and pathological changes accompanied by inflammatory and fibrotic responses, suggesting that the model presented significant clinical features of lymphedema. Goreisan may exert a therapeutic effect on lymphedema by inhibiting CD4+ T-cell infiltration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Nana Zhang
- Tsumura Kampo Research Laboratories, Tsumura & Co
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Kuonqui K, Campbell AC, Sarker A, Roberts A, Pollack BL, Park HJ, Shin J, Brown S, Mehrara BJ, Kataru RP. Dysregulation of Lymphatic Endothelial VEGFR3 Signaling in Disease. Cells 2023; 13:68. [PMID: 38201272 PMCID: PMC10778007 DOI: 10.3390/cells13010068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor 3 (VEGFR3), a receptor tyrosine kinase encoded by the FLT4 gene, plays a significant role in the morphogenesis and maintenance of lymphatic vessels. Under both normal and pathologic conditions, VEGF-C and VEGF-D bind VEGFR3 on the surface of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) and induce lymphatic proliferation, migration, and survival by activating intracellular PI3K-Akt and MAPK-ERK signaling pathways. Impaired lymphatic function and VEGFR3 signaling has been linked with a myriad of commonly encountered clinical conditions. This review provides a brief overview of intracellular VEGFR3 signaling in LECs and explores examples of dysregulated VEGFR3 signaling in various disease states, including (1) lymphedema, (2) tumor growth and metastasis, (3) obesity and metabolic syndrome, (4) organ transplant rejection, and (5) autoimmune disorders. A more complete understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the lymphatic pathology of each disease will allow for the development of novel strategies to treat these chronic and often debilitating illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Babak J. Mehrara
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Raghu P. Kataru
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA
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Brown S, Nores GDG, Sarker A, Ly C, Li C, Park HJ, Hespe GE, Gardenier J, Kuonqui K, Campbell A, Shin J, Kataru RP, Aras O, Mehrara BJ. Topical captopril: a promising treatment for secondary lymphedema. Transl Res 2023; 257:43-53. [PMID: 36736951 PMCID: PMC10192126 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2023.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1)-mediated tissue fibrosis is an important regulator of lymphatic dysfunction in secondary lymphedema. However, TGF-β1 targeting can cause toxicity and autoimmune complications, limiting clinical utility. Angiotensin II (Ang II) modulates intracellular TGF-β1 signaling, and inhibition of Ang II production using angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as captopril, has antifibrotic efficacy in some pathological settings. Therefore, we analyzed the expression of ACE and Ang II in clinical lymphedema biopsy specimens from patients with unilateral breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) and mouse models, and found that cutaneous ACE expression is increased in lymphedematous tissues. Furthermore, topical captopril decreases fibrosis, activation of intracellular TGF-β1 signaling pathways, inflammation, and swelling in mouse models of lymphedema. Captopril treatment also improves lymphatic function and immune cell trafficking by increasing collecting lymphatic pumping. Our results show that the renin-angiotensin system in the skin plays an important role in the regulation of fibrosis in lymphedema, and inhibition of this signaling pathway may hold merit for treating lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stav Brown
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Gabriela D G Nores
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Ananta Sarker
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Catherine Ly
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Claire Li
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Hyeung Ju Park
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Geoffrey E Hespe
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Jason Gardenier
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Kevin Kuonqui
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Adana Campbell
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Jinyeon Shin
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Raghu P Kataru
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Omer Aras
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Babak J Mehrara
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.
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Imai H, Kawase T, Yoshida S, Mese T, Roh S, Fujita A, Uchiki T, Sasaki A, Nagamatsu S, Takazawa A, Ichinohe T, Koshima I. Peripheral T cell profiling reveals downregulated exhaustion marker and increased diversity in lymphedema post-lymphatic venous anastomosis. iScience 2023; 26:106822. [PMID: 37250774 PMCID: PMC10212982 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphedema is a progressive condition accompanying cellulitis and angiosarcoma, suggesting its association with immune dysfunction. Lymphatic venous anastomosis (LVA) can provide relief from cellulitis and angiosarcoma. However, the immune status of peripheral T cells during lymphedema and post-LVA remains poorly understood. Using peripheral blood T cells from lymphedema, post-LVA, and healthy controls (HCs), we compared the profile of T cell subsets and T cell receptor (TCR) diversity. PD-1+ Tim-3 + expression was downregulated in post-LVA compared with lymphedema. IFN-γ levels in CD4+PD-1+ T cells and IL-17A levels in CD4+ T cells were downregulated in post-LVA compared with lymphedema. TCR diversity was decreased in lymphedema compared with HCs; such TCR skewing was drastically improved in post-LVA. T cells in lymphedema were associated with exhaustion, inflammation, and diminished diversity, which were relieved post-LVA. The results provide insights into the peripheral T cell population in lymphedema and highlight the immune modulatory importance of LVA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hirofumi Imai
- International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Takakazu Kawase
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Research Institute for Radiation Biology and Medicine, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
- International Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Fujita Health University, Toyoake, Aichi 470-1192, Japan
| | - Shuhei Yoshida
- International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Toshiro Mese
- International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Solji Roh
- International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Asuka Fujita
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Toshio Uchiki
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Ayano Sasaki
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Shogo Nagamatsu
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Atsushi Takazawa
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hiroshima Hiramatsu Hospital, Hiroshima 732-0816, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Ichinohe
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Research Institute for Radiation Biology and Medicine, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 734-8553, Japan
| | - Isao Koshima
- International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
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Comparison of the Effectiveness of Liposuction for Lower Limb versus Upper Limb Lymphedema. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12051727. [PMID: 36902514 PMCID: PMC10003574 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12051727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Liposuction is the most frequently performed debulking procedure in patients with lymphedema. However, it remains uncertain whether liposuction is equally effective for upper extremity lymphedema (UEL) and lower extremity lymphedema (LEL). In this study, we retrospectively compared the effectiveness of liposuction according to whether it was performed for LEL or UEL, and identified factors associated with outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS All patients had been treated at least once by lymphovenous anastomosis or vascularized lymphatic transplant before liposuction but without sufficient volume reduction. The patients were divided into an LEL group and a UEL group, and then subdivided further according to whether they completed their planned compression therapy into an LEL compliance group, an LEL non-compliance group, a UEL compliance group, and a UEL non-compliance group. The reduction rates in LEL (REL) and in UEL (REU) were compared between the groups. RESULTS In total, 28 patients with unilateral lymphedema were enrolled (LEL compliance group, n = 12; LEL non-compliance group, n = 6; UEL compliance group, n = 10; UEL non-compliance group, n = 0). The non-compliance rate was significantly higher in the LEL group than in the UEL group (p = 0.04). REU was significantly higher than REL (100.1 ± 37.3% vs. 59.3 ± 49.4%; p = 0.03); however, there was no significant difference between REL in the LEL compliance group (86 ± 31%) and REU in the UEL group (101 ± 37%) (p = 0.32). CONCLUSION Liposuction seems to be more effective in UEL than in LEL, probably because the compression therapy required for management after liposuction is easier to implement for UEL. The lower pressure and smaller coverage area required for postoperative management after liposuction in the upper limb may explain why liposuction is more effective in UEL than in LEL.
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Pillay V, Shukla L, Herle P, Maciburko S, Bandara N, Reid I, Morgan S, Yuan Y, Luu J, Cowley KJ, Ramm S, Simpson KJ, Achen MG, Stacker SA, Shayan R, Karnezis T. Radiation therapy attenuates lymphatic vessel repair by reducing VEGFR-3 signalling. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1152314. [PMID: 37188266 PMCID: PMC10176020 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1152314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Surgery and radiotherapy are key cancer treatments and the leading causes of damage to the lymphatics, a vascular network critical to fluid homeostasis and immunity. The clinical manifestation of this damage constitutes a devastating side-effect of cancer treatment, known as lymphoedema. Lymphoedema is a chronic condition evolving from the accumulation of interstitial fluid due to impaired drainage via the lymphatics and is recognised to contribute significant morbidity to patients who survive their cancer. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms underlying the damage inflicted on lymphatic vessels, and particularly the lymphatic endothelial cells (LEC) that constitute them, by these treatment modalities, remain poorly understood. Methods: We used a combination of cell based assays, biochemistry and animal models of lymphatic injury to examine the molecular mechanisms behind LEC injury and the subsequent effects on lymphatic vessels, particularly the role of the VEGF-C/VEGF-D/VEGFR-3 lymphangiogenic signalling pathway, in lymphatic injury underpinning the development of lymphoedema. Results: We demonstrate that radiotherapy selectively impairs key LEC functions needed for new lymphatic vessel growth (lymphangiogenesis). This effect is mediated by attenuation of VEGFR-3 signalling and downstream signalling cascades. VEGFR-3 protein levels were downregulated in LEC that were exposed to radiation, and LEC were therefore selectively less responsive to VEGF-C and VEGF-D. These findings were validated in our animal models of radiation and surgical injury. Discussion: Our data provide mechanistic insight into injury sustained by LEC and lymphatics during surgical and radiotherapy cancer treatments and underscore the need for alternative non-VEGF-C/VEGFR-3-based therapies to treat lymphoedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinochani Pillay
- O’Brien Institute Department, St Vincent’s Institute for Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Lipi Shukla
- O’Brien Institute Department, St Vincent’s Institute for Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Plastic Surgery, St. Vincent’s Hospital, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, ACU, AORTEC; Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Prad Herle
- O’Brien Institute Department, St Vincent’s Institute for Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Simon Maciburko
- O’Brien Institute Department, St Vincent’s Institute for Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Nadeeka Bandara
- O’Brien Institute Department, St Vincent’s Institute for Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Isabella Reid
- O’Brien Institute Department, St Vincent’s Institute for Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Steven Morgan
- O’Brien Institute Department, St Vincent’s Institute for Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Yinan Yuan
- O’Brien Institute Department, St Vincent’s Institute for Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Jennii Luu
- Victorian Centre for Functional Genomics, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Karla J. Cowley
- Victorian Centre for Functional Genomics, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Susanne Ramm
- Victorian Centre for Functional Genomics, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Kaylene J. Simpson
- Victorian Centre for Functional Genomics, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St. Vincent’s Hospital, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Marc G. Achen
- O’Brien Institute Department, St Vincent’s Institute for Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Steven A. Stacker
- Tumour Angiogenesis and Microenvironment Program, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ramin Shayan
- O’Brien Institute Department, St Vincent’s Institute for Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Plastic Surgery, St. Vincent’s Hospital, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tara Karnezis
- O’Brien Institute Department, St Vincent’s Institute for Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, St. Vincent’s Hospital, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Tara Karnezis,
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Poojari A, Dev K, Rabiee A. Lipedema: Insights into Morphology, Pathophysiology, and Challenges. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10123081. [PMID: 36551837 PMCID: PMC9775665 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10123081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 11/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipedema is an adipofascial disorder that almost exclusively affects women. Lipedema leads to chronic pain, swelling, and other discomforts due to the bilateral and asymmetrical expansion of subcutaneous adipose tissue. Although various distinctive morphological characteristics, such as the hyperproliferation of fat cells, fibrosis, and inflammation, have been characterized in the progression of lipedema, the mechanisms underlying these changes have not yet been fully investigated. In addition, it is challenging to reduce the excessive fat in lipedema patients using conventional weight-loss techniques, such as lifestyle (diet and exercise) changes, bariatric surgery, and pharmacological interventions. Therefore, lipedema patients also go through additional psychosocial distress in the absence of permanent treatment. Research to understand the pathology of lipedema is still in its infancy, but promising markers derived from exosome, cytokine, lipidomic, and metabolomic profiling studies suggest a condition distinct from obesity and lymphedema. Although genetics seems to be a substantial cause of lipedema, due to the small number of patients involved in such studies, the extrapolation of data at a broader scale is challenging. With the current lack of etiology-guided treatments for lipedema, the discovery of new promising biomarkers could provide potential solutions to combat this complex disease. This review aims to address the morphological phenotype of lipedema fat, as well as its unclear pathophysiology, with a primary emphasis on excessive interstitial fluid, extracellular matrix remodeling, and lymphatic and vasculature dysfunction. The potential mechanisms, genetic implications, and proposed biomarkers for lipedema are further discussed in detail. Finally, we mention the challenges related to lipedema and emphasize the prospects of technological interventions to benefit the lipedema community in the future.
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Wolf S, von Atzigen J, Kaiser B, Grünherz L, Kim BS, Giovanoli P, Lindenblatt N, Gousopoulos E. Is Lymphedema a Systemic Disease? A Paired Molecular and Histological Analysis of the Affected and Unaffected Tissue in Lymphedema Patients. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12111667. [PMID: 36421681 PMCID: PMC9687735 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Secondary lymphedema is a chronic, debilitating disease and one of the most common side effects of oncologic surgery, substantially decreasing quality of life. Despite the progress conducted in lymphedema research, the underlying pathomechanisms remain elusive. Lymphedema is considered to be a disease affecting an isolated extremity, yet imaging studies suggest systemic changes of the lymphatic system in the affected patients. To evaluate potential systemic manifestations in lymphedema, we collected matched fat and skin tissue from the edematous and non-edematous side of the same 10 lymphedema patients as well as anatomically matched probes from control patients to evaluate whether known lymphedema manifestations are present systemically and in comparison to health controls. The lymphedematous tissue displayed various known hallmarks of lymphedema compared to the healthy controls, such as increased epidermis thickness, collagen deposition in the periadipocyte space and the distinct infiltration of CD4+ cells. Furthermore, morphological changes in the lymphatic vasculature between the affected and unaffected limb in the same lymphedema patient were visible. Surprisingly, an increased collagen deposition as well as CD4 expression were also detectable in the non-lymphedematous tissue of lymphedema patients, suggesting that lymphedema may trigger systemic changes beyond the affected extremity.
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Sung C, Wang S, Hsu J, Yu R, Wong AK. Current Understanding of Pathological Mechanisms of Lymphedema. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle) 2022; 11:361-373. [PMID: 34521256 PMCID: PMC9051876 DOI: 10.1089/wound.2021.0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Significance: Lymphedema is a common disease that affects hundreds of millions of people worldwide with significant financial and social burdens. Despite increasing prevalence and associated morbidities, the mainstay treatment of lymphedema is largely palliative without an effective cure due to incomplete understanding of the disease. Recent Advances: Recent studies have described key histological and pathological processes that contribute to the progression of lymphedema, including lymphatic stasis, inflammation, adipose tissue deposition, and fibrosis. This review aims to highlight cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in each of these pathological processes. Critical Issues: Despite recent advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of lymphedema, cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the disease remains elusive due to its complex nature. Future Directions: Additional research is needed to gain a better insight into the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the pathophysiology of lymphedema, which will guide the development of therapeutic strategies that target specific pathology of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Sung
- Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA
| | - Sarah Wang
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jerry Hsu
- Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA.,Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Roy Yu
- Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Alex K. Wong
- Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, California, USA.,Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, California, USA.,Correspondence: Division of Plastic Surgery, City of Hope National Medical Center, 1500 Duarte Road, Familian Science Building 1018, Duarte, CA 91010, USA.
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Baik JE, Park HJ, Kataru RP, Savetsky IL, Ly CL, Shin J, Encarnacion EM, Cavali MR, Klang MG, Riedel E, Coriddi M, Dayan JH, Mehrara BJ. TGF-β1 mediates pathologic changes of secondary lymphedema by promoting fibrosis and inflammation. Clin Transl Med 2022; 12:e758. [PMID: 35652284 PMCID: PMC9160979 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Secondary lymphedema is a common complication of cancer treatment, and previous studies have shown that the expression of transforming growth factor‐beta 1 (TGF‐β1), a pro‐fibrotic and anti‐lymphangiogenic growth factor, is increased in this disease. Inhibition of TGF‐β1 decreases the severity of the disease in mouse models; however, the mechanisms that regulate this improvement remain unknown. Methods Expression of TGF‐β1 and extracellular matrix molecules (ECM) was assessed in biopsy specimens from patients with unilateral breast cancer‐related lymphedema (BCRL). The effects of TGF‐β1 inhibition using neutralizing antibodies or a topical formulation of pirfenidone (PFD) were analyzed in mouse models of lymphedema. We also assessed the direct effects of TGF‐β1 on lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) using transgenic mice that expressed a dominant‐negative TGF‐β receptor selectively on LECs (LECDN‐RII). Results The expression of TGF‐β1 and ECM molecules is significantly increased in BCRL skin biopsies. Inhibition of TGF‐β1 in mouse models of lymphedema using neutralizing antibodies or with topical PFD decreased ECM deposition, increased the formation of collateral lymphatics, and inhibited infiltration of T cells. In vitro studies showed that TGF‐β1 in lymphedematous tissues increases fibroblast, lymphatic endothelial cell (LEC), and lymphatic smooth muscle cell stiffness. Knockdown of TGF‐β1 responsiveness in LECDN‐RII resulted in increased lymphangiogenesis and collateral lymphatic formation; however, ECM deposition and fibrosis persisted, and the severity of lymphedema was indistinguishable from controls. Conclusions Our results show that TGF‐β1 is an essential regulator of ECM deposition in secondary lymphedema and that inhibition of this response is a promising means of treating lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Eun Baik
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Hyeung Ju Park
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Raghu P Kataru
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Ira L Savetsky
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Catherine L Ly
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Jinyeon Shin
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Elizabeth M Encarnacion
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Michele R Cavali
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Mark G Klang
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Elyn Riedel
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Michelle Coriddi
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Joseph H Dayan
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Babak J Mehrara
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
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Brown S, Dayan JH, Coriddi M, Campbell A, Kuonqui K, Shin J, Park HJ, Mehrara BJ, Kataru RP. Pharmacological Treatment of Secondary Lymphedema. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:828513. [PMID: 35145417 PMCID: PMC8822213 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.828513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymphedema is a chronic disease that results in swelling and decreased function due to abnormal lymphatic fluid clearance and chronic inflammation. In Western countries, lymphedema most commonly develops following an iatrogenic injury to the lymphatic system during cancer treatment. It is estimated that as many as 10 million patients suffer from lymphedema in the United States alone. Current treatments for lymphedema are palliative in nature, relying on compression garments and physical therapy to decrease interstitial fluid accumulation in the affected extremity. However, recent discoveries have increased the hopes of therapeutic interventions that may promote lymphatic regeneration and function. The purpose of this review is to summarize current experimental pharmacological strategies in the treatment of lymphedema.
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12
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Yusof KM, Groen K, Rosli R, Avery-Kiejda KA. Crosstalk Between microRNAs and the Pathological Features of Secondary Lymphedema. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:732415. [PMID: 34733847 PMCID: PMC8558478 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.732415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Secondary lymphedema is characterized by lymphatic fluid retention and subsequent tissue swelling in one or both limbs that can lead to decreased quality of life. It often arises after loss, obstruction, or blockage of lymphatic vessels due to multifactorial modalities, such as lymphatic insults after surgery, immune system dysfunction, deposition of fat that compresses the lymphatic capillaries, fibrosis, and inflammation. Although secondary lymphedema is often associated with breast cancer, the condition can occur in patients with any type of cancer that requires lymphadenectomy such as gynecological, genitourinary, or head and neck cancers. MicroRNAs demonstrate pivotal roles in regulating gene expression in biological processes such as lymphangiogenesis, angiogenesis, modulation of the immune system, and oxidative stress. MicroRNA profiling has led to the discovery of the molecular mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of auto-immune, inflammation-related, and metabolic diseases. Although the role of microRNAs in regulating secondary lymphedema is yet to be elucidated, the crosstalk between microRNAs and molecular factors involved in the pathological features of lymphedema, such as skin fibrosis, inflammation, immune dysregulation, and aberrant lipid metabolism have been demonstrated in several studies. MicroRNAs have the potential to serve as biomarkers for diseases and elucidation of their roles in lymphedema can provide a better understanding or new insights of the mechanisms underlying this debilitating condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khairunnisa' Md Yusof
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Kira Groen
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Rozita Rosli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia.,UPM-MAKNA Cancer Research Laboratory, Institute of Bioscience, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
| | - Kelly A Avery-Kiejda
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
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13
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Yoshida S, Koshima I, Imai H, Roh S, Mese T, Uchiki T, Sasaki A, Nagamatsu S. Effect of Postoperative Compression Therapy on the Success of Liposuction in Patients with Advanced Lower Limb Lymphedema. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10214852. [PMID: 34768372 PMCID: PMC8584961 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10214852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: There is limited information on postoperative care after liposuction for lymphedema limb. The aim of this retrospective study was to identify the threshold compression pressure and other factors that lead liposuction for lower limb lymphedema to success. Materials and Methods: Patients were divided according to whether they underwent compression therapy with both stockings and bandaging (SB group), stockings alone (S group), or bandaging alone (B group) for 6 months after liposuction. The postoperative compression pressure and rate of improvement were compared according to the postoperative compression method. We also investigated whether it was possible to decrease the compression pressure after 6 months. Liposuction was considered successful if improvement rate was >15. Results: Mean compression pressure was significantly lower in the S group than in the SB group or B group. The liposuction success rate was significantly higher in the SB group than in the B group or S group. There was not a significant difference between the values at 6 months after liposuction and at 6 months after a decrease in compression pressure in the successful group. Conclusion: Our results suggest that stable high-pressure postoperative compression therapy is key to the success of liposuction for lower limb lymphedema and is best achieved by using both stockings and bandages. The postoperative compression pressure required for liposuction to be successful was >40 mmHg on the lower leg and >20 mmHg on the thigh. These pressures could be decreased after 6 months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuhei Yoshida
- The International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan; (I.K.); (H.I.); (S.R.); (T.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-82-257-5555; Fax: +81-82-257-5851
| | - Isao Koshima
- The International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan; (I.K.); (H.I.); (S.R.); (T.M.)
| | - Hirofumi Imai
- The International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan; (I.K.); (H.I.); (S.R.); (T.M.)
| | - Solji Roh
- The International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan; (I.K.); (H.I.); (S.R.); (T.M.)
| | - Toshiro Mese
- The International Center for Lymphedema, Hiroshima University Hospital, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan; (I.K.); (H.I.); (S.R.); (T.M.)
| | - Toshio Uchiki
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 739-8511, Japan; (T.U.); (A.S.); (S.N.)
| | - Ayano Sasaki
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 739-8511, Japan; (T.U.); (A.S.); (S.N.)
| | - Shogo Nagamatsu
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima 739-8511, Japan; (T.U.); (A.S.); (S.N.)
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14
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Stritt S, Koltowska K, Mäkinen T. Homeostatic maintenance of the lymphatic vasculature. Trends Mol Med 2021; 27:955-970. [PMID: 34332911 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2021.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The lymphatic vasculature is emerging as a multifaceted regulator of tissue homeostasis and regeneration. Lymphatic vessels drain fluid, macromolecules, and immune cells from peripheral tissues to lymph nodes (LNs) and the systemic circulation. Their recently uncovered functions extend beyond drainage and include direct modulation of adaptive immunity and paracrine regulation of organ growth. The developmental mechanisms controlling lymphatic vessel growth have been described with increasing precision. It is less clear how the essential functional features of lymphatic vessels are established and maintained. We discuss the mechanisms that maintain lymphatic vessel integrity in adult tissues and control vessel repair and regeneration. This knowledge is crucial for understanding the pathological vessel changes that contribute to disease, and provides an opportunity for therapy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Stritt
- Uppsala University, Department of Immunology, Genetics, and Pathology, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Katarzyna Koltowska
- Uppsala University, Department of Immunology, Genetics, and Pathology, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Taija Mäkinen
- Uppsala University, Department of Immunology, Genetics, and Pathology, 751 85 Uppsala, Sweden.
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15
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Increased levels of VEGF-C and macrophage infiltration in lipedema patients without changes in lymphatic vascular morphology. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10947. [PMID: 32616854 PMCID: PMC7331572 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67987-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipedema is a chronic adipose tissue disorder characterized by the disproportional subcutaneous deposition of fat and is commonly misdiagnosed as lymphedema or obesity. The molecular determinants of the lipedema remain largely unknown and only speculations exist regarding the lymphatic system involvement. The aim of the present study is to characterize the lymphatic vascular involvement in established lipedema. The histological and molecular characterization was conducted on anatomically-matched skin and fat biopsies as well as serum samples from eleven lipedema and ten BMI-matched healthy patients. Increased systemic levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-C (P = 0.02) were identified in the serum of lipedema patients. Surprisingly, despite the increased VEGF-C levels no morphological changes of the lymphatic vessels were observed. Importantly, expression analysis of lymphatic and blood vessel-related genes revealed a marked downregulation of Tie2 (P < 0.0001) and FLT4 (VEGFR-3) (P = 0.02) consistent with an increased macrophage infiltration (P = 0.009), without changes in the expression of other lymphatic markers. Interestingly, a distinct local cytokine milieu, with decreased VEGF-A (P = 0.04) and VEGF-D (P = 0.02) expression was identified. No apparent lymphatic anomaly underlies lipedema, providing evidence for the different disease nature in comparison to lymphedema. The changes in the lymphatic-related cytokine milieu might be related to a modified vascular permeability developed secondarily to lipedema progression.
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16
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Invernizzi M, Lopez G, Michelotti A, Venetis K, Sajjadi E, De Mattos-Arruda L, Ghidini M, Runza L, de Sire A, Boldorini R, Fusco N. Integrating Biological Advances Into the Clinical Management of Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema. Front Oncol 2020; 10:422. [PMID: 32300557 PMCID: PMC7142240 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2020.00422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL) occurs in a significant number of breast cancer survivors as a consequence of the axillary lymphatics' impairment after therapy (mainly axillary surgery and irradiation). Despite the recent achievements in the clinical management of these patients, BCRL is often diagnosed at its occurrence. In most cases, it remains a progressive and irreversible condition, with dramatic consequences in terms of quality of life and on sanitary costs. There are still no validated pre-surgical strategies to identify individuals that harbor an increased risk of BCRL. However, clinical, therapeutic, and tumor-specific traits are recurrent in these patients. Over the past few years, many studies have unraveled the complexity of the molecular and transcriptional events leading to the lymphatic system ontogenesis. Additionally, molecular insights are coming from the study of the germline alterations involved at variable levels in BCRL models. Regrettably, there is a substantial lack of predictive biomarkers for BCRL, given that our knowledge of its molecular milieu remains extremely puzzled. The purposes of this review were (i) to outline the biology underpinning the ontogenesis of the lymphatic system; (ii) to assess the current state of knowledge of the molecular alterations that can be involved in BCRL pathogenesis and progression; (iii) to discuss the present and short-term future perspectives in biomarker-based patients' risk stratification; and (iv) to provide practical information that can be employed to improve the quality of life of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Invernizzi
- Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Piedmont "A. Avogadro", Novara, Italy
| | - Gianluca Lopez
- School of Pathology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Michelotti
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Konstantinos Venetis
- Ph.D. Program in Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Divison of Pathology, IRCCS European Institute of Oncology (IEO), Milan, Italy
| | - Elham Sajjadi
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Michele Ghidini
- Division of Medical Oncology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Letterio Runza
- Division of Pathology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Alessandro de Sire
- Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine, Department of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Piedmont "A. Avogadro", Novara, Italy.,Rehabilitation Unit, "Mons. L. Novarese" Hospital, Moncrivello, Italy
| | - Renzo Boldorini
- Pathology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, Novara Medical School, Novara, Italy
| | - Nicola Fusco
- Divison of Pathology, IRCCS European Institute of Oncology (IEO), Milan, Italy.,Department of Oncology and Hemato-Oncology, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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17
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Kataru RP, Wiser I, Baik JE, Park HJ, Rehal S, Shin JY, Mehrara BJ. Fibrosis and secondary lymphedema: chicken or egg? Transl Res 2019; 209:68-76. [PMID: 31022376 PMCID: PMC7400991 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Secondary lymphedema is a common complication of cancer treatment resulting in progressive fibroadipose tissue deposition, increased risk of infections, and, in rare cases, secondary malignancies. Until recently, the pathophysiology of secondary lymphedema was thought to be related to impaired collateral lymphatic formation after surgical injury. However, more recent studies have shown that chronic inflammation-induced fibrosis plays a key role in the pathophysiology of this disease. In this review, we will discuss the evidence supporting this hypothesis and summarize recent publications demonstrating that lymphatic injury activates chronic immune responses that promote fibrosis and lymphatic leakiness, decrease collecting lymphatic pumping, and impair collateral lymphatic formation. We will review how chronic mixed T-helper cell inflammatory reactions regulate this process and how this response may be used to design novel therapies for lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghu P Kataru
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Itay Wiser
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Jung Eun Baik
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Hyeung Ju Park
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Sonia Rehal
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Jin Yeon Shin
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
| | - Babak J Mehrara
- Department of Surgery, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York.
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18
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Suehiro K, Yamamoto S, Honda S, Morikage N, Harada E, Takemoto Y, Nagano H, Hamano K. Perioperative variations in indices derived from noninvasive assessments to detect postmastectomy lymphedema. J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord 2019; 7:562-569. [PMID: 31203860 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvsv.2019.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to clarify the variations in indices derived from noninvasive assessments for the early detection of postmastectomy lymphedema (LE) from 1 month preoperatively until 2 years postoperatively. METHODS In total, 120 patients who underwent surgery for breast cancer in our institution were prospectively followed up with a questionnaire for arm swelling as well as with tape measurements, bioimpedance analysis (BIA), and skin and subcutaneous tissue ultrasound at 1 month before and 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months after surgery. RESULTS Ninety-seven patients completed the study. Among 93 patients who did not present with LE, 9% complained of arm swelling even before surgery, and the incidence peaked at 17% at 6 months after surgery. There were no differences in the circumferences of the upper arm, forearm, and hand between sides throughout the study period. However, the postoperative circumference values of the upper arm only on the operation side were slightly increased compared with the preoperative values. The mean excess fluid in the arm on the operation side compared with the contralateral side, as assessed by BIA, was nearly zero throughout the study period. There were no differences in subcutaneous echogenicity or skin and subcutaneous thicknesses between the sides throughout the study period. However, time-dependent increases in subcutaneous thicknesses were noticed on both sides. Four patients (4.1%) developed LE. In three of these patients, abnormality in the BIA was recorded 6 to 12 months before presentation. Immediately after presentation, the common findings included BIA abnormality and increased subcutaneous echogenicity and skin thickness in the medial forearm. CONCLUSIONS In this study, a complaint of arm swelling was not sensitive enough for detection of the early onset of LE because a certain number of patients constantly complained of this symptom. Measurements of circumference might help in the diagnosis of LE onset, but this method is not specific enough because these measurements are also affected by various factors. However, BIA and skin and subcutaneous ultrasound were identified as potential tools for the early detection of LE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kotaro Suehiro
- Department of Surgery and Clinical Science, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan.
| | - Shigeru Yamamoto
- Department of Gastroenterological, Breast, and Endocrine Surgery, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Saiko Honda
- Department of Nursing, Yamaguchi University Hospital, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Noriyasu Morikage
- Department of Surgery and Clinical Science, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Eijiro Harada
- Department of Surgery and Clinical Science, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Takemoto
- Department of Surgery and Clinical Science, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Nagano
- Department of Gastroenterological, Breast, and Endocrine Surgery, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Kimikazu Hamano
- Department of Surgery and Clinical Science, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine, Ube, Yamaguchi, Japan
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19
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Kataru RP, Baik JE, Park HJ, Wiser I, Rehal S, Shin JY, Mehrara BJ. Regulation of Immune Function by the Lymphatic System in Lymphedema. Front Immunol 2019; 10:470. [PMID: 30936872 PMCID: PMC6431610 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The lymphatic vasculature has traditionally been thought to play a passive role in the regulation of immune responses by transporting antigen presenting cells and soluble antigens to regional lymph nodes. However, more recent studies have shown that lymphatic endothelial cells regulate immune responses more directly by modulating entry of immune cells into lymphatic capillaries, presenting antigens on major histocompatibility complex proteins, and modulating antigen presenting cells. Secondary lymphedema is a disease that develops when the lymphatic system is injured during surgical treatment of cancers or is damaged by infections. We have used mouse models of lymphedema in order to understand the effects of chronic lymphatic injury on immune responses and have shown that lymphedema results in a mixed T helper cell and T regulatory cell (Treg) inflammatory response. Prolonged T helper 2 biased immune responses in lymphedema regulate the pathology of this disease by promoting tissue fibrosis, inhibiting formation of collateral lymphatics, decreasing lymphatic vessel pumping capacity, and increasing lymphatic leakiness. Treg infiltration following lymphatic injury results from proliferation of natural Tregs and suppresses innate and adaptive immune responses. These studies have broad clinical relevance since understanding how lymphatic injury in lymphedema can modulate immune responses may provide a template with which we can study more subtle forms of lymphatic injury that may occur in physiologic conditions such as aging, obesity, metabolic tumors, and in the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghu P Kataru
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jung Eun Baik
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Hyeung Ju Park
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Itay Wiser
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Sonia Rehal
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jin Yeon Shin
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
| | - Babak J Mehrara
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States
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20
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Human Plasma Levels of VEGF-A, VEGF-C, VEGF-D, their Soluble Receptor - VEGFR-2 and Applicability of these Parameters as Tumor Markers in the Diagnostics of Breast Cancer. Pathol Oncol Res 2018; 25:1477-1486. [PMID: 30387014 PMCID: PMC6815280 DOI: 10.1007/s12253-018-0527-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
VEGF family members are important factors in promoting angio- and lymphangiogenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate concentrations, diagnostic utility and power of VEGF-A, VEGF-C, VEGF-D and VEGFR-2 in comparison to CA15-3 in breast cancer (BC) patients. The study included 120 BC patients and 60 control patients (28 with benign breast tumors and 32 healthy women). Plasma levels of tested parameters were determined by ELISA, CA15-3 by CMIA. Concentrations of all parameters showed statistical significance when compared BC patients to controls. VEGF-D showed the highest SE (82.50%) in total BC group. Highest SP and PPV in total BC group showed VEGF-A(76.67%;84.78%,respectively), but lower than CA15-3. Highest NPV showed VEGF-C(52.33%), but it was lower than CA15-3. VEGF-C was also the best parameter which had statistically significant AUC in total cancer group (0.7672), but also stages I(0.7684) and II(0.7772). In the total group of BC almost all tested parameters showed statistically significant AUC, but a maximum range was obtained for the combination of VEGF-C + CA15-3(0.8476). The combined analysis of tested parameters and CA15-3 resulted in increase in SE and AUC values, which provides hope for developing a new panel of biomarkers that may be used in the diagnosis of BC in the future.
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21
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Lymphedema surgery: the current state of the art. Clin Exp Metastasis 2018; 35:553-558. [DOI: 10.1007/s10585-018-9897-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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22
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Maañón J, Perez D, Rhode A, Callejón G, Rivas-Ruiz F, Perez-Ruiz E, Rodrigo I, Ramos B, Medina F, Villatoro R, Redondo M, Rueda A. High serum vascular endothelial growth factor C predicts better relapse-free survival in early clinically node-negative breast cancer. Oncotarget 2018; 9:28131-28140. [PMID: 29963266 PMCID: PMC6021352 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.25577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
A recent meta-analysis indicated that higher tumoral expression of vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF-C) was related to poorer relapse-free and overall survival in breast cancer patients. However, a retrospective study found that higher circulating VEGF-C levels were associated with better survival in breast cancer patients. In 2009, we initiated a prospective study to determine the utility of preoperative serum VEGF-C levels for predicting the risk of sentinel lymph node involvement in early breast cancer and to assess serum VEGF-C levels as a prognostic factor for relapse-free and overall survival. We analyzed serum samples from 174 patients with early breast cancer who underwent sentinel lymph node biopsies. VEGF-C levels were determined using an ELISA. Serum VEGF-C levels were normally distributed, with a median value of 6561.5 pg/mL, and did not correlate with any other clinical or pathological variables. During a median follow-up period of 58 months, the five-year relapse-free survival rate was higher in patients with VEGF-C levels above the median than in patients with lower levels (95.3% vs. 85.9%, p < 0.04). No association was found between VEGF-C levels and overall survival. Our study demonstrates that the prognosis was better for early breast cancer patients with high serum VEGF-C levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Maañón
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Breast Cancer Unit, Hospital Costa de Sol, Málaga University, Málaga, Spain
| | - Diego Perez
- Medical Oncology Unit, Breast Cancer Unit, Hospital Costa de Sol, (REDISSEC), Marbella, Málaga, Spain
| | - Alejandro Rhode
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Breast Cancer Unit, Hospital Costa de Sol, Marbella, Málaga, Spain
| | - Gonzalo Callejón
- Clinical Analysis Laboratory Unit, Hospital Costa de Sol, Marbella, Málaga, Spain
| | - Francisco Rivas-Ruiz
- Support for Research Unit, Hospital Costa de Sol, (REDISSEC), Marbella, Málaga, Spain
| | - Elisabeth Perez-Ruiz
- Medical Oncology Unit, Breast Cancer Unit, Hospital Costa de Sol, (REDISSEC), Marbella, Málaga, Spain
| | - Isabel Rodrigo
- Pathology Unit, Breast Cancer Unit, Hospital Costa de Sol, Marbella, Málaga, Spain
| | - Belén Ramos
- Radiology Unit, Breast Cancer Unit, Hospital Costa de Sol, Marbella, Málaga, Spain
| | - Francisco Medina
- General and Digestive Surgery Unit, Breast Cancer Unit, Hospital Costa de Sol, (REDISSEC), Marbella, Málaga, Spain
| | - Rosa Villatoro
- Medical Oncology Unit, Breast Cancer Unit, Hospital Costa de Sol, (REDISSEC), Marbella, Málaga, Spain
| | - Maximino Redondo
- Hospital Tumor Registry, Hospital Costa de Sol, (REDISSEC), Marbella, Málaga, Spain
| | - Antonio Rueda
- Medical Oncology Unit, Breast Cancer Unit, Hospital Costa de Sol, (REDISSEC), Marbella, Málaga, Spain
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Urner S, Kelly-Goss M, Peirce SM, Lammert E. Mechanotransduction in Blood and Lymphatic Vascular Development and Disease. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2017; 81:155-208. [PMID: 29310798 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2017.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The blood and lymphatic vasculatures are hierarchical networks of vessels, which constantly transport fluids and, therefore, are exposed to a variety of mechanical forces. Considering the role of mechanotransduction is key for fully understanding how these vascular systems develop, function, and how vascular pathologies evolve. During embryonic development, for example, initiation of blood flow is essential for early vascular remodeling, and increased interstitial fluid pressure as well as initiation of lymph flow is needed for proper development and maturation of the lymphatic vasculature. In this review, we introduce specific mechanical forces that affect both the blood and lymphatic vasculatures, including longitudinal and circumferential stretch, as well as shear stress. In addition, we provide an overview of the role of mechanotransduction during atherosclerosis and secondary lymphedema, which both trigger tissue fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Urner
- Institute of Metabolic Physiology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Molly Kelly-Goss
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Shayn M Peirce
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Eckhard Lammert
- Institute of Metabolic Physiology, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany; Institute for Beta Cell Biology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany.
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Cucchi F, Rossmeislova L, Simonsen L, Jensen MR, Bülow J. A vicious circle in chronic lymphoedema pathophysiology? An adipocentric view. Obes Rev 2017; 18:1159-1169. [PMID: 28660651 DOI: 10.1111/obr.12565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Revised: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chronic lymphoedema is a disease caused by a congenital or acquired damage to the lymphatic system and characterized by complex chains of pathophysiologic events such as lymphatic fluid stasis, chronic inflammation, lymphatic vessels impairment, adipose tissue deposition and fibrosis. These events seem to maintain and reinforce themselves through a positive feedback loop: regardless of the initial cause of lymphatic stasis, the dysfunctional adipose tissue and its secretion products can worsen lymphatic vessels' function, aggravating lymph leakage and stagnation, which can promote further adipose tissue deposition and fibrosis, similar to what may happen in obesity. In addition to the current knowledge about the tight and ancestral interrelation between immunity system and metabolism, there is evidence for similarities between obesity-related and lymphatic damage-induced lymphoedema. Together, these observations indicate strong reciprocal relationship between lymphatics and adipose tissue and suggest a possible key role of the adipocyte in the pathophysiology of chronic lymphoedema's vicious circle.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Cucchi
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospitals, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - L Rossmeislova
- Department for the Study of Obesity and Diabetes, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - L Simonsen
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospitals, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - M R Jensen
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospitals, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - J Bülow
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospitals, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Copenhagen University, Denmark
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An Important Role of VEGF-C in Promoting Lymphedema Development. J Invest Dermatol 2017; 137:1995-2004. [PMID: 28526302 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2017.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2016] [Revised: 03/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Secondary lymphedema is a common complication after cancer treatment, but the pathomechanisms underlying the disease remain unclear. Using a mouse tail lymphedema model, we found an increase in local and systemic levels of the lymphangiogenic factor vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-C and identified CD68+ macrophages as a cellular source. Surprisingly, overexpression of VEGF-C in a transgenic mouse model led to aggravation of lymphedema with increased immune cell infiltration and vascular leakage compared with wild-type littermates. Conversely, blockage of VEGF-C by overexpression of soluble VEGF receptor-3 reduced edema development, diminishing inflammation and blood vascular leakage. Similar findings were obtained in a hind limb lymph node excision lymphedema model. Flow cytometry analyses and immunofluorescence stainings in lymphedematic tissue showed that VEGF receptor-3 expression was restricted to lymphatic endothelial cells. Our data suggest that endogenous VEGF-C causes blood vascular leakage and fluid influx into the tissue, thus actively contributing to edema formation. These data may provide the basis for future clinical therapeutic approaches.
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Cintolesi V, Stanton AW, Bains SK, Cousins E, Peters AM, Purushotham AD, Levick JR, Mortimer PS. Constitutively Enhanced Lymphatic Pumping in the Upper Limbs of Women Who Later Develop Breast Cancer-Related Lymphedema. Lymphat Res Biol 2016; 14:50-61. [DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2016.0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Viviana Cintolesi
- Cardiovascular and Cell Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony W.B. Stanton
- Cardiovascular and Cell Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Salena K. Bains
- Department of Research Oncology, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Cousins
- Cardiovascular and Cell Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - A. Michael Peters
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Arnie D. Purushotham
- Department of Research Oncology, King's College London, Guy's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - J. Rodney Levick
- Cardiovascular and Cell Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Peter S. Mortimer
- Cardiovascular and Cell Sciences Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Dermatology, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kindom
- Skin Unit, The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, Sutton, Surrey, United Kingdom
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