A number of research initiatives and collaborations have been put into place to enable Dr. Lemole’s vision for integrated lymphatics research.
The role of the perivascular lymphatic system in the development of atherosclerosis
In this basic science study, Prox1 heterozygous mice with missing Prox1 on one allele and lymphatic system function defects have been crossed with atherosclerosis-susceptible mice. The purpose is to determine the effect of the lymphatic system on development of atherosclerosis.
Characterizing the development of the immune system (lymphangiogenesis) in adipose tissue in people with metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes
In collaboration with Temple Health System clinicians, we examine adipose tissue samples from patients having bariatric surgery. We’re looking for molecular markers of lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic permeability.
Profiling the lymphatic endothelial cell transcriptomic response to cytokines
In collaboration with NIH investigators, we are performing transcriptome and mRNA methylation profiling of human lymphatic endothelial cells in response to various stimuli.
Studying the lymphatic system in the lungs of smokers and patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
In collaboration with investigators of the Temple Lung Center, we are examining tissue samples for markers of lymphangiogenesis and permeability. Patient blood serum samples are also being examined for circulating cytokines associated with lymphangiogenesis.
The role of the lymphatic system in cardiac regeneration after a heart attack (myocardial infarction)
This work investigates the functional roles of lymphatic vessels in heart disease, including myocardial infarction (MI) and diabetic cardiomyopathy in genetically modified mice.
Identifying targets for treatment of congenital and secondary lymphedema.
Lymphedema occurs when damage or dysfunction in the lymphatic system prevents normal drainage of lymphatic fluid, leading to fluid buildup and swelling in the tissues. We’re seeking to define the genes and signaling pathways that regulate lymphatic development and discover ways to target them for treating congenital and secondary lymphedema.
Address how the lymphatic vasculature of the brain is modulated in the context of Alzheimer’s disease
In collaboration with Alzheimer’s Center at Temple faculty, RNA-sequencing of the brains of mice that model Alzheimer’s disease has identified modulation of endothelial-specific genes, which may contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
The role of lymphatic system in chronic kidney disease (CKD)
We seek to determine if the pyroptosis (programmed inflammatory cell death) pathway contributes to lymphatic endothelial cell activation/dysfunction in mouse models of CKD.
Arterial response to interventional procedures
Studies in genetically modified mice will uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying restenosis, which is the recurrence of abnormal narrowing of an artery after vascular interventional corrective surgery.