Inflammation-induced lymphangiogenesis in the cornea arises from CD11b-positive macrophages

In the inflamed cornea, there is a parallel outgrowth of blood and lymphatic vessels into the normally avascular cornea. We tested whether adaptive and/or innate immune cells were actively involved in the genesis of new lymphatic vessels. Our results indicate that innate immune cells (CD11b+ macrophages, but not CD11c+ dendritic cells) physically contributed to lymphangiogenesis under pathological conditions and that bone marrow-derived CD11b+ macrophages expressed lymphatic endothelial markers such as LYVE-1 and Prox-1 under inflamed conditions in the corneal stromata of mice. Furthermore, blood vascular endothelial cells that expressed the Tie2 promoter did not contribute to newly formed lymphatic vessels under inflamed conditions. Our in vitro experiments demonstrated that CD11b+ macrophages alone were capable of forming tube-like structures that expressed markers of lymphatic endothelium such as LYVE-1 and podoplanin. The novel finding that CD11b+ macrophages are critical for the development of inflammation-dependent lymphangiogenesis in the eye suggests a new mechanism of lymphangiogenesis.     

Ophthalmologische Komplikationen beim Sjögren-Syndrom

Background

Ocular complications are typical sequels of primary and secondary Sjögren’s syndrome. Since these can lead to blindness in the case of insufficient therapeutic steps, diagnostic tools and therapeutic options in Sjögren-syndrome associated ocular diseases are outlined.

Methods

Literature review from PubMed and own clinical and experimental results.

Results

Numerous ocular complications can occur both in primary and secondary Sjögren’s syndrome. The main problems involve tear film disturbances leading to severe forms of dry eye.

Conclusion

Early and close cooperation between rheumatologist and ophthalmologist can avoid long-term complications in patients with Sjögren’s disease and ocular complications.