Selective Stimulation of Cardiac Lymphangiogenesis Reduces Myocardial Edema and Fibrosis Leading to Improved Cardiac Function Following Myocardial Infarction.

Background: The lymphatic system regulates interstitial tissue fluid balance, and lymphatic malfunction causes edema. The heart has an extensive lymphatic network displaying a dynamic range of lymph flow in physiology. Myocardial edema occurs in many cardiovascular diseases, eg, myocardial infarction (MI) and chronic heart failure, suggesting that cardiac lymphatic transport may be insufficient in pathology.