Lymph flow, shear stress, and lymphocyte velocity in rat mesenteric prenodal lymphatics.

Objective: To measure lymphocyte velocity, lymphatic contraction, and shear stress in phasically contracting lymphatics in situ.

Methods: A high-speed video system was used to capture multiple contraction cycles in rat mesenteric lymphatic preparations. The images were analyzed to determine fluid velocity, volume flow rate, wall shear stress, and retrograde flow.

Effects of substance P on mesenteric lymphatic contractility in the rat.

Background: Substance P (SP) is associated with lymphatic tissue and is a putative mediator of inflammation. The lymph pump is one of the major "safety factors" preventing edema and its activity is altered by inflammatory mediators. The impact of SP on lymphatics was studied in the rat mesentery.