Abnormal lymphatic vessel development in neuropilin 2 mutant mice

L Yuan, D Moyon, L Pardanaud, C Bréant… - 2002 - journals.biologists.com
L Yuan, D Moyon, L Pardanaud, C Bréant, MJ Karkkainen, K Alitalo, A Eichmann
2002journals.biologists.com
Neuropilin 2 is a receptor for class III semaphorins and for certain members of the vascular
endothelial growth factor family. Targeted inactivation of the neuropilin 2 gene (Nrp2) has
previously shown its role in neural development. We report that neuropilin 2 expression in
the vascular system is restricted to veins and lymphatic vessels. Homozygous Nrp2 mutants
show absence or severe reduction of small lymphatic vessels and capillaries during
development. This correlated with a reduction of DNA synthesis in the lymphatic endothelial …
Neuropilin 2 is a receptor for class III semaphorins and for certain members of the vascular endothelial growth factor family. Targeted inactivation of the neuropilin 2 gene (Nrp2) has previously shown its role in neural development. We report that neuropilin 2 expression in the vascular system is restricted to veins and lymphatic vessels. Homozygous Nrp2 mutants show absence or severe reduction of small lymphatic vessels and capillaries during development. This correlated with a reduction of DNA synthesis in the lymphatic endothelial cells of the mutants. Arteries, veins and larger, collecting lymphatic vessels developed normally, suggesting that neuropilin 2 is selectively required for the formation of small lymphatic vessels and capillaries.
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