Beyond PROX1: transcriptional, epigenetic, and noncoding RNA regulation of lymphatic identity and function

The lymphatic vascular system acts as the major transportation highway of tissue fluids, and its activation or impairment is associated with a wide range of diseases. There has been increasing interest in understanding the mechanisms that control lymphatic vessel formation (lymphangiogenesis) and function in development and disease. Here, we discuss recent insights into new players whose identification has contributed to deciphering the lymphatic regulatory code. We reveal how lymphatic endothelial cells, the building blocks of lymphatic vessels, utilize their transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and epigenetic portfolio to commit to and maintain their vascular lineage identity and function, with a particular focus on development.

Automated summary

The lymphatic vascular system plays a crucial role in tissue fluid transportation and its activation or impairment is linked to various diseases. Recent research has focused on understanding the mechanisms that control lymphangiogenesis and function, with a particular emphasis on the role of lymphatic endothelial cells in maintaining their vascular lineage identity and function.