Optimal postnodal lymphatic network structure that maximizes active propulsion of lymph.
Optimal postnodal lymphatic network structure that maximizes active propulsion of lymph.
复制标题
最佳的结后淋巴网络结构，最大限度地提高淋巴的主动推进力。
DOI：
10.1152/ajpheart.00360.2008
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发表时间：
2009
期刊：
影响因子：
--
通讯作者：
Stewart,RandolphH
中科院分区：
文献类型：
--
作者：
Venugopal,ArunM;Quick,ChristopherM;Laine,GlenA;Stewart,RandolphH
The lymphatic system acts to return lower-pressured interstitial fluid to the higher-pressured veins by a complex network of vessels spanning more than three orders of magnitude in size. Lymphatic vessels consist of lymphangions, segments of vessels between two unidirectional valves, which contain smooth muscle that cyclically pumps lymph against a pressure gradient. Whereas the principles governing the optimal structure of arterial networks have been identified by variations of Murray's law, the principles governing the optimal structure of the lymphatic system have yet to be elucidated, although lymph flow can be identified as a critical parameter. The reason for this deficiency can be identified. Until recently, there has been no algebraic formula, such as Poiseuille's law, that relates lymphangion structure to its function. We therefore employed a recently developed mathematical model, based on the time-varying elastance model conventionally used to describe ventricular function, that was validated by data collected from postnodal bovine mesenteric lymphangions. From this lymphangion model, we developed a model to determine the structure of a lymphatic network that optimizes lymph flow. The model predicted that there is a lymphangion length that optimizes lymph flow and that symmetrical networks optimize lymph flow when the lymphangions downstream of a bifurcation are 1.26 times the length of the lymphangions immediately upstream. Measured lymphangion lengths (1.14 ± 0.5 cm,n= 74) were consistent with the range of predicted optimal lengths (0.1–2.1 cm). This modeling approach was possible, because it allowed a structural parameter, such as length, to be treated as a variable.
