Recent advances in the exploration and manipulation of the human genome provided new insights into the intricate genetics and control of lymphangiogenesis. Implications for embryogenesis and development of the lymphatic system and its role in some familial and aneuploid syndromes are reviewed, along with their genotypic and phenotypic characteristics. Increased understanding of growth and development of the lymphatic vessels may bring new therapeutic options for lymphatic angiodysplasias and control of the lymphatic spread of tumors.
Lymphedema; genetics; lymphangiogenesis
